31.08.2025 Statement for open meeting on Bosnia & Herzegovina

Checked Against Delivery

Thank you, Mr. President,

I would also like to welcome at today’s meeting his excellency the Chair of the Presidency of Bosnia & Herzegovina, as well as representatives of Croatia, Serbia and the European Union.   

Mr. President,

As many have mentioned this morning, in December this year we are marking 30 years since signing of the Dayton peace agreement that ended the horrific war in Bosnia and Herzegovina. A milestone that reminds us how far the country has come.

Thirty years on. we must renew our shared commitment to upholding the peace agreement, and to ensuring that the hard-won peace remains lasting, inclusive and resilient for future generations.  

Earlier this year, we witnessed a serious political and constitutional crisis unfold in Bosnia and Herzegovina, stemming from secessionist rhetoric and actions by Republika Srpska entity authorities. The Security Council looked at these developments with deep concern.

Let us be clear, actions that run counter to the Dayton Peace Agreement are unacceptable.

On a more positive note, in recent weeks, we have witnessed stabilising developments. We welcome the decisions made by the National Assembly of the Republika Srpska entity that contribute to the de-escalation of the political situation.

However, we underline the key importance of the authorities in the Republika Srpska entity to demonstrate a clear political will to move away from the remaining initiatives and legislation that run counter to the constitutional order and European Union path of the country, and which continue to be a source of our concern.

We call on all political actors to seize this opportunity to renew their commitment to genuine dialogue and continue to pursue the path of de-escalation. Responsible rhetoric and actions by all leaders is key in this regard.

We express our hope that the upcoming early presidential elections in the Republika Srpska entity will be conducted in a peaceful, transparent, fair and inclusive manner.

Madam. President,

This is also a window of opportunity for Bosnia and Herzegovina to renew its commitment to the path towards membership of the European Union, including appointing a Chief negotiator and intensify work on reforms without delay.

There is no doubt that Bosnia and Herzegovina belong in the European family.

Accession negotiations opened 1,5 years ago. Now it is time to seize the moment for the benefit of the country’s citizens. It requires commitment, focus and unity.

In this respect, we welcome the recent submission of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Reform Agenda for the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans.

Madam president,

One lesson we have drawn from the recent political and constitutional crisis is that stability can never be taken for granted.

We applaud the strong institutions that upheld their responsibilities even under enormous political pressure.

While we hope to see Bosnia and Herzegovina move beyond the need for a strong international presence, that moment has not yet arrived.

Denmark welcomes today’s unanimous adoption of resolution 2795 renewing the mandate of EUFOR Althea. Denmark is proud to be among the contributing countries to the mission as a partner of Bosnia and Herzegovina committed to peace, stability and progress.

We commend the mission for its vital work in upholding a safe and secure environment. 

We would also like to extend our support to the Office of the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina. We thank the High Representative for his latest report.

Madam president,

To conclude, let me reiterate Denmark’s unwavering support for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty and territorial integrity as a single, united, and multi-ethnic country.

I thank you.