Statement by the Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador Ronaldo Costa Filho, at the UNSC meeting on Bosnia and Herzegovina - May 11th, 2022

Madam President,

I would like to thank the High-Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina, Christian Schmidt, for his presentation on the latest developments in the country. Brazil acknowledges the great commitment of the international community in supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina towards a path of political stability. In the more than 25 years since the Dayton Accords have put an end to the atrocities in the former Yugoslav Republic, all efforts have been made to promote reconciliation, strengthen social cohesion, and foster economic development in the country. The United Nations and the European Union have been particularly committed to provide assistance to Bosnia in its recovery.

However, there are duties and responsibilities that only the Bosnian people can accomplish. Ultimately, the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina can only exist as a fully functional State if its people are committed to its laws and institutions. It is disturbing to know

that, as the High Representativehas informed us, some Bosnian politicians are taking steps to create parallel legislative and institutional frameworks to undermine the current State institutions, and by doing so, putting into question the very existence of the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The current and previous reports of the High Representative have consistently informed us that much remains to be done by Bosnians themselves in order to achieve full statehood. We note the regretful lack of progress regarding the "agenda 5 + 2" established by the Steering Board of the Peace Implementation Council. We call upon all Bosnian authorities to recommit and work together towards its fulfilment.

Free and fair elections are essential to democracy. Hence, it is disturbing to witness the lack of progress by Bosnians to reform their electoral legislation due to political divergences. It is even worse to be informed that no government could be established in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina after the 2018 elections. The political process in general, and elections in particular, should not be regarded as a "zero-sum game", but as an opportunity to allow all voices in society to be heard and their differences to be bridged. We hope that in a near future all Bosnians will share common values and a common view of their future.

The legislative paralysis identified by the High Representative prevents the much needed State reforms, which is cause for great

concern. The different parties of Bosnia and Herzegovina must engage in open dialogue and political negotiation, with real flexibility in order to adopt necessary laws.

Also highlighted by the reports of the High Representative is the failure in many levels of government to put legislation in full conformity with judicial rulings. We cannot overemphasize the importance to strengthen the rule of law for a functioning State.

We also call upon all parties to the steering board of the peace implementation council to take into consideration the views of all its participants and to improve transparency in its decision-making process.

Madam President,

Brazil supports the Bosnian people in their endeavors to live in peace, with security and prosperity. We do not underestimate the challenges involved. Their cause has generated extraordinary support from the international community. Bosnians must make the best use of this assistance, mindful that the ultimate success of their efforts is on their own hands.

Thank you.