The most vulnerable citizens are particularly hard hit by politicians’ failure to form new government authorities, High Representative and EU Special Representative Valentin Inzko said today during a meeting in Sarajevo with representatives of the  FBiH Association of Disabled Civilians.

Speaking to the FBiH Disabled Civilians Association President, Zijad Arapcic, the HR/EUSR expressed his full support for employment initiatives intended to benefit the most vulnerable groups in BiH society. At the same time, the HR/EUSR also pointed out that constructive and positive initiatives are all too often being undermined by the continuing political deadlock regarding government formation.

“The lack of progress in government formation will have serious implications, including financial implications,” the HR/EUSR said.

With unemployment still running at an unacceptably high rate – officially above 43 percent – and half the population living on or below the poverty line, vulnerable groups such as disabled persons are in a particularly difficult situation, the HR/EUSR said. “It is the responsibility of those elected in October 2010 to start doing what is necessary in order to finally end the political deadlock and to begin improving living conditions in BiH, especially of the most vulnerable.”