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High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina Christian Schmidt warned of “destructive tensions” in the country while also informing members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) of his decision to resign.
Schmidt attended a UNSC session titled “Situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina,” where he presented his latest report on the country and referred to what he described as troubling political developments.
“I underline that the country is moving along a narrowing path. This path leads either toward institutional sustainability and consolidation, economic recovery, the rule of law and democratic governance standards, or toward further stagnation triggered by political obstruction and the gradual dismantling of state institutions,” Schmidt said.
While noting that the general security situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina remains stable, Schmidt warned that “potentially destructive tensions continue to be a source of concern.”
“Stability should not be confused with institutional health. Even in the absence of an imminent security crisis, there is an ongoing crisis of institutional functionality and political responsibility. This affects the quality of governance, economic development and the daily lives of citizens,” he added.
Ahead of Bosnia’s general elections scheduled for Oct. 26, Schmidt also highlighted priorities including the timely implementation of election technologies.
He further accused the leadership of Republika Srpska of continuing “to question the territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina and undermine hopes for stability and reform.”
Schmidt also formally informed the Security Council of his decision to step down from the post for personal reasons.
“I made the personal decision to conclude my term as High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina based on the Dayton Peace Agreement, various UNSC resolutions and the mandate given to me by the Steering Board of the Peace Implementation Council in 2021,” he told the council.
He said the process of selecting his successor is already underway.
Schmidt first announced his resignation in a written statement published on the website of the Office of the High Representative (OHR).
After submitting his resignation to the Steering Board of the Peace Implementation Council, Schmidt said he would remain in office until a new representative is appointed in June.
His departure comes amid what he described as a “deepening crisis of governance and institutional functionality” in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Established under the Dayton Peace Agreement that ended the 1992-1995 Bosnian war, the Office of the High Representative oversees implementation of the peace accord on behalf of the international community.
The High Representative also coordinates international institutions operating in Bosnia and Herzegovina and submits regular reports to the United Nations regarding developments in the country.
The position carries extensive executive authorities known as the “Bonn Powers,” which allow the High Representative to dismiss officials deemed to be obstructing the peace process and impose legislation when necessary.
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