Thewesternbalkans
Following an announce of the Council of the European Union, the member states decided to extend the framework for restrictive measures in view of the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina for another two years, until 31 March 2026.
“The European Union will keep its ability to impose targeted restrictive measures on individuals or entities who undermine the sovereignty, territorial integrity, constitutional order and international personality of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Restrictive measures can also be imposed against those who seriously threaten the security situation in the country, or undermine the Dayton General Framework Agreement for Peace.”
Restrictive measures under this framework consist of an asset freeze, prohibition to make funds available, and travel ban to the EU for natural persons.
At the same time the Spokesperson of the EU External Action Service has presented a statement concerning the amendment of the election law in B&H by UN High Representative Christian Schmidt. Following the statement “The EU recalls that his executive powers should be used only as a measure of last resort against irreparable unlawful acts.” And also: “The EU expects that Bosnia and Herzegovina authorities implement the required reforms ensuring that elections are conducted in line with European standards by implementing OSCE/ODIHR and relevant Venice Commission recommendations, and ensure transparency of political party financing.”
The EU has expressed a strong preference for the BiH Parliament to take its responsibility and adopt these reforms, as the state coalition leaders committed to do in time for implementation during the October municipal elections.
Following the European Council’s decision to open accession negotiation, the EU will continue to work with BiH authorities to advance on the European path.
Comments:
The Council´s Decision 2011/173/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina was adopted on 21 March 2011.
Just days after the European Council’s decision to open accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina, the EU demonstrated the practical application of the “carrot and stick” principle with the continuation of restrictive measures.
Regarding Schmidt’s decision to change BiH’s electoral law, the reaction of the European External Action Service (albeit only at the level of a spokesperson) quite rightly expresses dissatisfaction with his actions and tries to remind that Schmidt is a High Representative and not governor general in that country.
