US at UNSC: Success for a High Representative can mean working yourself out of a job

Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting on Bosnia and Herzegovina, the US representative recognised the Office of the High Representative’s efforts to empower local leaders and prepare the country’s government to assume full responsibility for its affairs.

“Success for a High Representative means fostering a stable, secure, and sovereign Bosnia and Herzegovina, even if it also means working yourself out of a job,” the representative said.

“We are closer than ever to fulfilling the promise of the Dayton Accords, where Bosnia and Herzegovina takes responsibility for its own challenges and its leaders drive local solutions.”

Following the peaceful elections held in early October, the US said the priority was to establish authorities at the state, entity and cantonal levels.

“Voters entrusted you to focus on practical cooperation, achieve tangible progress, and deliver stability and prosperity for all of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s citizens. Prove them right,” the representative said.

Washington reaffirmed its support for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty and territorial integrity as enshrined in the Dayton Peace Agreement, as the country increasingly assumes responsibility for addressing its own challenges.

The US also welcomed the renewal of EUFOR Althea’s mandate, describing the operation as a valuable contributor to security and stability in the Western Balkans.

Opening the statement, the representative expressed condolences following the helicopter crash involving Italian personnel serving in the mission and paid tribute to those killed and injured.

“Their service, alongside their brothers and sisters in arms, has critically contributed to peace and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina,” the representative said.