”Party-political tactics have over the past four years led to parliamentary gridlock in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). At the same time, the country faces serious economic problems which have been further aggravated by the world recession,” High Representative and EU Special Representative Valentin Inzko is to say today in a speech at Columbia University in New York.

The HR/EUSR will say that despite the gravity of BiH‘s problems “new circumstances” following the 3 October elections offer hope that the Bosnian institutions will work more effectively in the future. “We are at a crucial moment when fundamental and positive political change is possible – and we must seize this moment.”

The HR/EUSR will point out that renewed US engagement in Bosnia and Herzegovina will help turn this possibility into reality. “I want to stress that we are not talking about rescuing a failing peace process – we are talking about completing a peace process that has already delivered a great deal.” In a common effort the International Community in BiH is to ensure that the country is irreversibly on the road to full Euro-Atlantic integration, as a democratic, sovereign and functioning state. The International Community will support BiH in this endeavor, however, it must be crystal clear to everyone that is up to BiH’s political leaders to make this happen.

The HR/EUSR will stress that as long as the OHR remains in Bosnia and Herzegovina “it can and will play a constructive role in the new political environment.” The possibilities of the post-election environment “enhance the scope for constructive action by the OHR”. The International Community “must take a robust and creative approach to helping domestic stakeholders eliminate the obstacles that have hampered progress.” 

The full text of the speech will be uploaded on www.ohr.int and www.eusrbih.eu