ICG calls on EU to act in Bosnia

Sarajevo, 11 January 2011 (MIA) - The International Crisis Group (ICG), which follows and analyses the situation in areas affected by political and social crises, called on the European Union to take a more active role in Bosnia and Herzegovina to help the country remove the current blockade and establish an efficient and self-sustainable state.

"The European Union should make 2011 the year when it finally takes the lead international role in helping Bosnia on its journey from a war-ravaged ward to a stable member state," Croatia's news agency Hina cites the ICG latest report.

ICG analysts believe that the EU is in a better position to cajole Bosniaks, Serbs and Croats than the Office of the High Representative (OHR).

They recall that the OHR has at its disposal few of its previous powers, awarded to it after the signing of the 1995 Dayton peace agreement, and that it has little capacity to be effective even in the case of a serious security threat.

At the same time, the EU has been hesitant to act, while the OHR is still present in the country.

"It is time for the member states to reinforce its 'Delegation' (embassy) in the country so it can get on with the job only it can perform," the ICG suggests.

"The EU can help Bosnia implement needed reforms, but not dictate policy, keep its government running smoothly or guarantee stability. Bosnians will have to meet EU membership criteria themselves," says ICG Balkans Project Director Marko Prelec.

The ICG believes that despite difficulties, Bosnia and Herzegovina could apply for EU membership by the end of this year. When it happens, the EU's role will become even more important because further reform will need to be encouraged.

Sabine Freizer, the Crisis Group’s Europe Director, called on EU foreign ministers to adopt, at a meeting scheduled for January 31, a decision giving the EU Delegation in Bosnia and Herzegovina new powers, responsibilities and resources.

"Failure to move decisively on this when they meet on 31 January and to appoint soon a strong ambassador, a post left vacant for six months, would damage EU credibility to act just as its new European External Action Service is trying to demonstrate that the Lisbon Treaty has made Brussels a more effective international player," Freizer said.