Italy’s Non-Paper to EU Member States Ahead of Session on Selection of New High Representative in BiH

Italy has sent a so-called non-paper to European Union (EU) member states, outlining the priorities for the future international high representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) in an effort to reach a compromise for their candidate, Antonio Zanardi Landi, who also has the support of the United States (US), to be appointed as the new high representative.

The document, the contents of which were reported by Sarajevo-based Avaz, states that Landi would focus on completing the 5+2 agenda as a key condition for closing the Office of the High Representative (OHR) in BiH, as well as on reducing its role and scope of action.

It is particularly emphasized that he would not overturn previous decisions of former high representatives, and that the “Bonn powers” (the ability to impose decisions and laws) would be used only in extreme cases, following prior consultations with the member states of the Peace Implementation Council (PIC) Steering Board.

It is further stated that Landi’s mandate would be directed towards BiH’s European path and strengthening the integration process.

According to the Italian proposal, Landi would have a two-year mandate, with the possibility of extension, while the closure of the OHR would still depend on the fulfillment of the 5+2 agenda.

The 5+2 agenda was adopted by the PIC in 2008 and defines five key conditions and two objectives that the authorities in BiH must fulfill for the OHR’s mandate in the country to end.

Among other things, the authorities must resolve the issue of state property, fully implement the arbitration decision on Brčko, and the PIC must give a positive assessment of the situation in BiH, based on respect for the Dayton Peace Agreement.

According to Avaz, the Italian proposal was sent to make Landi more acceptable to other member states, given that some EU countries have expressed concerns that, if appointed high representative, he might act in a way not fully aligned with Union policy.

The concerns relate to the possibility that he could challenge the decisions of Christian Schmidt, including amendments to the BiH Criminal Code, on the basis of which an indictment was filed against the leader of the Alliance of Independent Social Democrats (SNSD), Milorad Dodik, and a verdict was issued banning him from holding public office for six years.

Because of this, it is emphasized, an option is being considered to adopt an additional document alongside Landi’s appointment that would limit the annulment of previous high representatives’ decisions.

Also in the running for the new high representative in BiH is the French candidate Rene Troccaz, who does not have US support, further complicating the agreement, as his appointment could jeopardize financial support for the OHR.

The next session of the PIC Steering Board is scheduled for tomorrow.