Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU Path: Strong Support, but Time for Serious Reform
- maria tsaousi
- Jun 11
- 3 min read
Bosnia and Herzegovina’s long journey toward European Union membership just received a major boost — but also a stern warning. On June 4, 2025, the European Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee (AFET) adopted a report that reaffirms strong support for BiH’s EU accession. At the same time, the report delivers a clear message: progress will depend on unity, real reform, and political will.
As the EU faces a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape, particularly following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, enlargement is once again a strategic priority. Bosnia and Herzegovina is part of that equation — but only if it can meet the expectations of a rules-based, democratic Union.
The EU Is Ready — Is Bosnia and Herzegovina?
The committee welcomed the European Council’s decision to open accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina. This marks a historic step forward. But MEPs warned that reforms have been slow, uneven, and too often symbolic.
To unlock the next phase — formal negotiations — BiH must:
Implement the Commission’s 12 October 2022 recommendations
Advance constitutional and electoral reform
Strengthen democratic institutions
Improve the rule of law
Fight corruption and organised crime
The European Parliament made it clear: this is not just about ticking boxes — it’s about proving the country is serious about aligning with EU values and standards.
A Red Line: Secessionist Rhetoric
One of the most urgent concerns in the report is the destabilising actions and rhetoric coming from Republika Srpska’s leadership, particularly from Milorad Dodik. The committee strongly condemned these efforts, warning they threaten not just Bosnia’s constitutional integrity, but also European security.
MEPs called for:
Targeted EU sanctions against those undermining BiH’s sovereignty
Increased support from the EU External Action Service (EEAS) to counter disinformation
Better alignment with EU foreign and security policy
The report also flagged ongoing interference from Russia and China, especially in Republika Srpska, as a serious threat to BiH’s path toward EU membership.
Reforming the Foundations
The report goes beyond short-term political fixes. It calls for a transformation of the Dayton Peace Agreement — the foundation of BiH’s post-war constitution — into a modern, sustainable, and inclusive framework.
This means:
Ending institutionalised ethnic divisions
Ensuring equal rights for all citizens
Promoting accountable, transparent governance
In short, the EU wants Bosnia and Herzegovina to evolve from a fragile peace to a functioning, pluralist democracy.
What’s at Stake?
Reforms won’t just bring political credibility — they’ll also unlock substantial financial benefits. The report highlights the potential of the Western Balkans Growth Plan and the Reform and Growth Facility, which could provide significant EU funding to support social, economic, and energy development.
But these funds depend on:
A credible national reform agenda
A strong and unified negotiating team
Tangible progress on anti-corruption and judicial independence
A Clear Signal from Brussels
Rapporteur Ondřej Kolář (EPP, Czech Republic) captured the urgency of the moment:
“Bosnia and Herzegovina, following Ukraine, finds itself in one of the most complex and challenging situations in Europe. To effectively counteract Russian influence, facilitating BiH’s accession must be a priority.”
What’s Next?
The report was adopted by a solid majority in the Foreign Affairs Committee — 56 votes in favour, and will be put to a vote in the European Parliament plenary session soon. A debate with the Council and Commission will also follow, reinforcing the EU’s strategic focus on the Western Balkans.
Final Thoughts: A Window of Opportunity
Bosnia and Herzegovina stands at a turning point. The EU door is open wider than it has been in years — but it won’t stay open indefinitely. The next steps are in Sarajevo’s hands. If BiH’s leaders can put aside division, commit to real reform, and act in the interest of all citizens, the country’s European future is still within reach.
But as the report makes clear, unity and accountability must come before accession.
What do you think?
Can Bosnia and Herzegovina meet the challenge and finally move forward on its EU path? What role should the EU play in helping BiH overcome internal divisions?
Join the conversation below or on social media using #BiHEU #EUAccession #WesternBalkans #BosniaAndHerzegovina #EUEnlargement.
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