The British Parliament held an urgent discussion on the political crisis in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a particular focus on the secessionist actions of Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik. The United Kingdom expressed strong condemnation of these actions, emphasizing that they pose a serious threat to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Minister Savidan highlighted that Dodik's actions are unconstitutional and dangerous, even for the citizens of Republika Srpska. “The United Kingdom remains firmly committed to the Dayton Peace Agreement, which respects the authorities of both entities and supports Bosnia as a sovereign and politically independent state,” the minister stated.

The Mminister also pointed out the Bosnian Court's decision on February 26, which convicted Dodik for refusing to implement the decisions of the High Representative. “The jurisdiction of the High Representative is indisputable, and disregarding the independent decisions of the Bosnian judiciary undermines the rule of law,” the minister added.

Following the verdict, the Republika Srpska National Assembly adopted a series of unconstitutional laws and proposed a new constitution, directly violating the Dayton Peace Agreement. The minister warned that these moves represent a significant escalation in the secessionist path and threaten the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

“Dodik's actions do not serve the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina, including those residing in Republika Srpska. The citizens need their political leaders to focus on passing reforms and building an inclusive future, rather than exacerbating tensions and amplifying secessionist rhetoric,” the minister said.

Shadow Foreign Secretary Dame Priti Patel thanked the minister for his remarks and emphasized that attempts to undermine Bosnia and Herzegovina's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and by extension the Dayton Peace Agreement, are deeply troubling. “For many years, the United Kingdom has been a reliable supporter of Bosnia and Herzegovina's democratic and pluralistic journey and a trusted promoter of security in the Western Balkans,” Patel stated.

Patel inquired about the specific steps the United Kingdom is taking to support Bosnia and Herzegovina on the path to stability and to defend and promote freedom and democracy in the region. The minister responded that the United Kingdom is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts with partners and allies, including the United States, the European Union, and members of the Quint.

“We have already had discussions with regional partners, who are crucial for stability. I spoke with Croatian Foreign Minister Radman and Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Djuric. This is part of a regular series of engagements we have, including through the Berlin Process,” the minister said.

The Minister also emphasized the importance of NATO's and EUFOR's roles in maintaining peace and security in Bosnia and Herzegovina. “We support Bosnia and Herzegovina's aspirations for Euro-Atlantic integration, including NATO membership, through joint training of UK and Bosnian armed forces,” the minister added.

During the discussion, the Minister warned about Russia's harmful activities in the region, including the spread of disinformation. “Russia continues to spread lies and disinformation, not only in Bosnia and Herzegovina but across Europe. Therefore, it is important that we work with our allies to counter these activities,” the Minister said.

The discussion concluded with a call for political leaders in the region to focus on building a stable and inclusive future, rather than escalating tensions. The United Kingdom remains committed to supporting peace and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the broader region.