Bosnia-Herzegovina: Rejection of Constitutional Reform (Taken Question)

Question: What is the U.S. reaction to the rejection of constitutional reform legislation in Bosnia-Herzegovina?

Answer: The United States is disappointed that the Bosnian parliament failed to pass landmark amendments to the constitution, a reform that is vitally important for the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina. We commend the Bosnians who led this process and who had the courage to make tough decisions and tough compromises. Twenty-six delegates, a strong majority in the House of Representatives, supported these amendments and voted for the reform, bringing parliament only two votes short of the 2/3 majority required. These results prove that change for the better is not only possible in this country, but deeply desired.

The 16 delegates who voted against these amendments fought for the status quo that maintains inefficiency and ethnic separation, which only delays Bosnia and Herzegovina’s full Euro-Atlantic integration.

The United States will continue to stand with the overwhelming majority of Bosnian citizens who favor moving forward towards fully functional state and government structures. We will continue to encourage Bosnia and Herzegovina to make the reforms necessary to realize its goal of full Euro-Atlantic integration. We will stand with the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a firm partner for reform and firm opponent of the status quo, both now and in the future.

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