High Representative Christian Schmidt stated that the time for action is now, not for waiting, emphasizing that Bosnia and Herzegovina no longer has the luxury of delaying processes that are key to unblocking the country. In an interview with Federal Television, he spoke about the outcomes of the Peace Implementation Council (PIC) Steering Board meeting, the Franco-German non-paper, the position of the opposition from Republika Srpska, and the possibility of imposing sanctions.
“We don’t have years, months, or even weeks. I won’t wait forever. The time to act is right now,” Schmidt said, stressing that the international community is demonstrating determination and commitment to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s progress.
He emphasized that it was a positive sign that serious discussions among political actors took place during the meeting in Sarajevo and particularly highlighted the contribution of opposition parties from Republika Srpska, which, as he said, represented the interests of their citizens. However, when it comes to the SNSD, Schmidt was clear: “What kind of dialogue would I have with SNSD? We’re talking about a political kindergarten.”
When asked about the HDZ’s proposal for three federal units, he replied that it was not discussed directly, but that it could be considered as part of a broader process. “Perhaps it could be a way to incorporate a solution for the rulings of the European Court of Human Rights,” he noted.
Speaking about the plan to intensify activities, Schmidt emphasized the importance of strengthening the independent judiciary through laws on the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council (HJPC) and the courts, as well as securing financial resources for the functioning of the state. “That is very important, and I think we will intensify our efforts in that area,” he added.
Commenting on the Franco-German non-paper, he said that it is not a document that imposes sanctions, but rather a positive European approach and encouragement to make progress. “It is not necessary to impose sanctions but to create progress, to move forward,” he said.
When asked whether parties from Republika Srpska had been promised that there would be no sanctions against the RS entity, Schmidt replied that no final decisions have been made, but that some countries are already considering withdrawing funding for projects in RS. Everything, he said, depends on the further development of the situation and the behavior of the entity’s authorities.
In conclusion, he stated that he still has tools ready to use if intervention becomes necessary, especially emphasizing the importance of preparations for the 2026 elections. “I hope there won’t be a need for interventions, but the tools are there and ready to be used,” the High Representative concluded.
Written by our correspondent D.I.
