The US Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina condemned the recent incidents of violence and intimidation of returnees throughout the country, emphasising that it is the responsibility of BiH authorities at all levels to promote an environment conducive to reconciliation.

“The United States strongly condemns the recent incidents of violence and intimidation that have occurred throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is unacceptable that Bosniak residents of Vlasenica and Potocari were subjected to threats and xenophobic insults, and that a Serb family’s house was attacked in Mostar,” the embassy said.

Bosniak returnees in eastern Bosnia report incident on Christmas Eve

Serb returnee’s home in Mostar attacked during Christmas

In the same vein, it added, “the glorification of Serb war criminals in Visegrad and the burning of a Republika Srpska flag in Zenica were irresponsible provocations that increased tensions and served to divide those communities.”

The United States condemns all acts of violence and intolerance. They erode societal cohesion and ultimately threaten the security and stability of BiH. The United States reiterates that it is the responsibility of BiH authorities at all levels, particularly the country’s political leaders, to promote an environment conducive to reconciliation”, the embassy stressed.

It reiterated the support to those “throughout the country who work to promote reconciliation as well as support peace and stability in BiH.”