Statement by Ambassador at the Security Council
debate on Bosnia and Herzegovina
Thank you President, and first may I join others in welcoming the
unanimous adoption of the resolution renewing the mandate of
EUFOR Operation Althea. And I want to pay particular tribute and
appreciation to Ireland’s role as penholder on the text. Bosnia
and Herzegovina has made progress since 1995, but its hard won
peace remains fragile and under pressure. EUFOR’s presence
continues to play an indispensable role in ensuring a safe and
secure environment.
Second, we would like to thank High Representative Schmidt for
his latest report, and we look forward to welcoming him in future
meetings. He and his office continue to play a crucial role, and
have the UK’s support, including for the use of his executive
powers should the situation require it.
We would like to congratulate all the people of Bosnia and
Herzegovina on the 2 October elections. These were, overall,
peaceful and democratic. But instances of fraud must be
investigated and prosecuted. And we also regret further instances
of dangerous, divisive and secessionist rhetoric. These must
stop.
But only half the work is done. We urge the relevant actors in
Bosnia and Herzegovina to prioritise collaboration and
cooperation over political obstructionism to ensure the election
results are implemented swiftly and effectively.
In this regard, we note the executive actions taken by the High
Representative in the run up to and following the elections. It
is clear from the report that these were tough decisions and that
the High Representative did not take them lightly. We understand
that in some quarters, these decisions were considered
controversial. But it is clear that they were made to amend a
dysfunctional status quo that benefitted few. His actions were
designed to improve governance to benefit all in Bosnia and
Herzegovina.
Finally, I would like to reaffirm the UK’s commitment to the
Dayton Peace Agreement and its structures. We welcome all work
towards meeting the conditions set out for their closure,
including the 5+2 Criteria. We remain an active member of the
Peace Implementation Council in support of the territorial
integrity and fundamental structure of Bosnia and Herzegovina as
a single, sovereign state, comprising two entities.
We urge all actors in Bosnia and Herzegovina to set aside narrow
interests, and focus instead on improving the quality of life for
all citizens, and making progress on the agreed aim of
Euro-Atlantic integration. Thank you Mr President.
