The political crisis in Bosnia and Herzegovina reinforces the ongoing vital and legitimate role of the High Representative: UK statement at the UN Security Council

The UK welcomes the renewal of the mandate of EUFOR Althea, which continues to play a vital role in ensuring peace and security in Bosnia and Herzegovina. I thank Greece, as penholder, for its efforts on the text.

I would also like to thank High Representative Christian Schmidt for his latest report and welcome His Excellency Mr Željko Komšić in our meeting today, as well as the representatives of Serbia, Croatia and the European Union.

I will make three points:

First, the constitutional order and rule of law in Bosnia and Herzegovina must be upheld. The last year has been marked by the most significant political crisis in Bosnia and Herzegovina for 30 years, caused by attacks on the Constitution and institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina by former President of Republika Srpska, Milorad Dodik.

We respect the decisions of Bosnia and Herzegovina's courts and call on all actors to uphold the rule of law and to show respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Holding timely presidential elections in the Republika Srpska will provide an opportunity for formation of their new government. We encourage a focus on constructive and cooperative politics, including between Bosnia and Herzegovina's two entities.

Second, the political crisis reinforces the ongoing vital and legitimate role of the High Representative and the importance of the Bonn Powers, both of which have been endorsed by this council in several Chapter 7 Resolutions.

Selected by the Peace Implementation Council and not the United Nations Security Council, the High Representative is charged with upholding implementation of the Dayton Peace Agreement. We fully support the High Representative and, where necessary, the use of his executive powers.

Third, the United Kingdom supports the Dayton Peace Agreement which mandated one state, two entities, and three constituent peoples. At the same time, we fully support Bosnia and Herzegovina's ambitions for Euro-Atlantic integration, as reflected in the will of the majority of its citizens.

I welcome the recent adoption of the European Union Reform Agenda as the most efficient way to deliver long-term benefits for all Bosnia and Herzegovina's citizens. We continue to support domestic responsibility and accountability.

Finally, the United Kingdom encourages all political leaders in Bosnia and Herzegovina to put aside their differences and demonstrate their political courage, working together towards a more stable and prosperous future for all citizens.