Statement by H.E. Sanita Pavļuta-Deslandes, Permanent Representative of Latvia to the UN, at the UN Security Council debate on Bosnia and Herzegovina
12 May 2026
Mr. President,
I would like to thank the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mr. Christian Schmidt, for his latest report, and for his participation today. I would also like to welcome the Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mr. Denis Bećirović, to the Chamber as well the representatives of Croatia, Serbia and the European Union to today’s meeting.
Mr. President,
After three decades, the Dayton Peace Agreement remains the cornerstone of reconciliation, peace, and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The institutions established under the Agreement, including the Office of the High Representative, retain an important role in upholding all the success achieved and ensuring a path forward completion of the “5+2 agenda”. We take note of the decision by the High Representatives to conclude his mandate and thank him for his dedicated service throughout his mandate. We encourage a swift appointment of his fully empowered successor by the Steering Board of the Peace Implementation Council. We express our continued support for the Office of the High Representative in carrying out their mandate to uphold the principles and obligations of the Dayton Peace Agreement.
Mr. President,
Despite significant achievements over these past decades, the report portrays a concerning trend that challenges the constitutional order and the rule of law in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Secessionist and inflammatory rhetoric introduces threats of instability and are deeply troubling. Such actions risk weakening democratic governance and undermining the hard-won progress achieved under the Dayton Peace Agreement. We call on all political leaders to refrain from divisive rhetoric and to engage in dialogue and cooperation that build trust, stability, and democratic governance across the country.
The continued efforts of EUFOR Althea are contributing to a safe and secure environment and supporting the authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina in maintaining stability. The engagement of the international community remains essential to ensuring progress, unity, and the European perspective that the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina aspire to.
Mr. President,
Latvia reaffirms its strong support for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s European perspective, and encourages its leaders to advance the reforms necessary to make further progress on this path. We encourage all leaders to work together in a spirit of compromise and shared responsibility, to advance the country’s stability, unity, and long-term development for the benefit of all its citizens.
With upcoming elections on the horizon, it is essential to ensure that the electoral process is conducted in a manner that is transparent, credible, inclusive and fully consistent with international democratic standards. Introducing additional safeguard mechanisms to ensure election integrity and is critical to maintaining public trust. Free and fair elections are a cornerstone of democratic governance and are vital for the country’s continued stability and development.
Mr. President,
Let me conclude by reaffirming Latvia’s strong commitment to the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and multiethnic character of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and to supporting all its people in building a peaceful, stable, and prosperous future.
I thank you.