UK Envoy warns: Bosnia's stability undermined by Dodik's actions

Dodik’s push for laws that promote secession is seen as a direct challenge to the constitutional framework established by the Dayton Peace Agreement, which defines Bosnia as one state composed of two entities and three constituent peoples. While concerns about electoral reform—particularly among Bosnian Croats—are acknowledged, Pierce emphasizes that progress toward EU and NATO membership is only possible if Bosnia acts as a unified state. In her view, Dodik’s political trajectory runs counter to that goal.

Addressing public fears about renewed conflict, Pierce pointed out that both the international community and local leaders share a responsibility to prevent the country from sliding back into the violence of the 1990s. She referenced recent tensions in the Western Balkans, including unrest in Kosovo, as reminders of the region’s volatility. While the people behind past atrocities have largely been held accountable, she noted that the legacy of that violence still lingers and must be taken seriously.

Pierce expressed strong support for the ongoing presence of EUFOR forces in Bosnia and emphasized the unique role of the High Representative, whose authority is backed by UN Security Council resolutions. Bosnia, she stressed, remains a special case in international governance due to the Dayton framework. She called on political leaders to avoid escalating tensions and instead focus on the reforms necessary for EU integration.

She reaffirmed the UK’s backing of the High Representative, describing him as an effective public official tasked with ensuring that the state continues to function for the benefit of all citizens, regardless of ethnic affiliation. The refusal by leaders like Dodik to recognize the authority of the High Representative and the Constitutional Court poses a significant challenge. From the international community’s perspective, no political actor should be allowed to bypass the rule of law. The expectation remains that secessionist measures will be withdrawn and that legal decisions will be respected in order to preserve Bosnia’s sovereignty and stability.