Important Civil Society Initiative in BiH!

Declaration of civil society on opening membership negotiations of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the European Union

Preamble

We, the representatives of the undersigned civil society organizations from Bosnia and Herzegovina, gathered for the common goal of promoting democracy, the rule of law and European values, express deep concern about the current situation regarding the European integration process of our country.

We express a common position that the opening of negotiations on the membership of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the European Union is crucial for the further political, economic and social development of our country. Aware of the urgency of the situation, we call on the Council of Ministers and the Parliamentary Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina to speed up the fulfilment of the criteria and demonstrate commitment to European reforms. Quick results are key to building citizens’ trust in the country’s European path.

We invite the European Council to make a positive decision on the opening of negotiations in March 2024.

Rationale

1. Aware of the geopolitical challenges and consequences that could arise from the failure to open negotiations, we believe that their opening would significantly contribute to long-term stability in the region and strengthening of regional cooperation.
2. We recognize the potential rise of Euroscepticism and institutional atrophy in the absence of steps towards EU integration. The opening of negotiations represents a key step towards strengthening democratic institutions and improving the lives of citizens, as well as their remaining in Bosnia and Herzegovina, where demographics indicate ongoing emigration.
3. We emphasize that only through an active process of negotiations can Bosnia and Herzegovina achieve efficient institutions and build the necessary capacities for harmonization with EU standards. This process enables the development of high-quality projects, which ensures adequate utilization of European Union funds to support the country’s development and progress.
4. We call for transparency in the allocation of funds from the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans. Active participation of civil society in monitoring this process is crucial for responsible management of financial resources.
5. We emphasize that citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina still support the country’s European perspective. The citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina do not deserve to be punished for irresponsible policies; therefore we insist on opening negotiations in order to build a better future together.

Conclusion

This Declaration represents the joint voice of the below-mentioned civil society organizations of Bosnia and Herzegovina and expresses our commitment to European values, democracy and the common European path. We invite the authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina to seriously approach the fulfilment of the conditions so that this opportunity offered to us is used in the best possible way. The authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina are responsible to the citizens for the implementation of quality reforms. We invite the European Council to recognize our positive role in society and open membership negotiations in March 2024.