For three decades, the Dayton Peace Agreement (DPA) has been the cornerstone of stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is the foundation that reinforces the country’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence. Today, we reaffirm a simple truth: respect for the DPA upholds peace and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina and southeastern Europe.
The DPA and its Annexes ended a devastating war and helped Bosnia and Herzegovina navigate the challenges of a new state. Over the past thirty years, many refugees have returned, the country’s physical infrastructure has been largely repaired, freedom of movement is taken for granted; the currency remains stable; and elections under BiH auspices are now well-run and peaceful. Step by step, BiH has developed functional institutions which have shown their resilience even in moments of crisis.
Looking ahead, we encourage the country’s leaders to make reforms that strengthen BiH’s sovereignty. This is a key step toward unlocking Bosnia and Herzegovina’s full potential.
Recent developments reaffirm the international community’s commitment to the DPA and support of a stable, peaceful and prosperous Bosnia and Herzegovina. The United Nations Security Council’s renewal of the EUFOR/ALTHEA mandate underscores the international community’s commitment to safeguarding peace.
Constructive engagement and compromise by all political actors will remain key to advancing stability and prosperity.
BiH chose to apply for EU membership, and the European Council decided to open EU accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina in March 2024. We encourage all political actors to renew their focus on advancing reform actions that support BiH’s stability, sovereignty, and prosperity.
We call on all the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina to take advantage of this opportunity and work to promote shared prosperity through compromise and move the country forward to a positive and stable future.
