The 66th report from the High Representative on Bosnia and Herzegovina highlights a critical period from April to October 2024, marked by political unrest, local elections, and efforts to align with European Union standards.

While Bosnia continues on its path towards EU integration, the report reveals persistent internal challenges, exacerbated by ethnic divisions and legislative gridlocks.

Key Developments:

1. Local Elections and Election Integrity:
   • The October 2024 local elections were conducted peacefully, gaining both domestic and international acclaim. Reforms, including amendments to the Election Law, introduced measures to improve transparency and fairness.
   • The prohibition of candidates with war crime convictions aimed to promote democratic integrity, although low female representation remains a concern.
2. Struggles with European Integration:
   • Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU integration is hindered by its failure to meet Growth Plan requirements. While the EU has promoted Bosnia’s accession, domestic political conflicts prevent full adoption of the reform agenda, leaving Bosnia isolated among Western Balkan countries in terms of EU alignment.
3. Constitutional and Ethnic Tensions:
   • Bosnia faces constitutional issues, with delays in implementing judgments from the European Court of Human Rights, particularly around discrimination in electoral eligibility. Ethnic divisions continue to strain governance, notably through secessionist rhetoric from Republika Srpska leaders.
4. Economic Challenges and Demographic Crisis:
   • The report touches on Bosnia’s economic vulnerabilities, including a decline in exports and industrial output. Social indicators, such as unemployment and high emigration rates, emphasize the need for political stability to foster economic growth.

Outlook: The High Representative calls for greater cooperation among Bosnia’s political actors to uphold the Peace Agreement and progress towards EU membership. As ethnic and political divisions persist, the future stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina hinges on overcoming these internal obstacles.