Yesterday’s failure to make progress towards forming a functioning governing coalition amounts to a betrayal of the trust given to political leaders and their parties; voters went to the polls on 3 October 2010 to have a government; they did not vote for endless and fruitless talks or another four years of political deadlock and stagnation. Voters made clear they want to see progress towards Euro-Atlantic integration.

Ahead of the elections all political parties and leaders backed the EU accession process; all said that they intended to fight corruption, strengthen the rule of law and get the economy back on its feet. This provides ample ground for agreement. To be able to tackle these issues governments must be formed as soon as possible and start working immediately.

As long as there is no Government jobs will not be created, the low standard of living will not be addressed, progress on Euro-Atlantic integration will not be achieved and the fight against organised crime and corruption will not be stepped up. BiH politicians need to get their act together now; otherwise they alone will be responsible for the consequences.

BiH leaders must make an additional effort now and focus on government formation. The October elections continue to be BiH’s best chance for a fresh start; the next four years will affect the next 40 years in BiH. In this regard, the EU has reiterated that integration with the Union must be at the heart of new government programmes.

Progress this year is possible if political leaders can agree on priority projects and an agenda which will be implemented forcefully and swiftly with broad consensus. It can be done, but it will require honesty, integrity and willingness to compromise from political leaders. This is the way to repay the trust voters gave to parties and individuals on 3 October.