Izvor: Southeast European Times, 12.Nov.2014, 20:08   (ažurirano 02.Apr.2020.)

EU poziva novu vladu BiH da radi na reformama, integraciji

The newly elected government is expected to focus on reforms and lead the country towards European integration.

12/11/2014

By Ana Lovaković for Southeast European Times in Sarajevo -- 12/11/14

EU officials expect the newly elected government in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) to focus on solving the post-war social and economic crisis and the deadlock on the path towards European integration.

Earlier this year, EU officials prepared a >> Pročitaj celu vest na sajtu Southeast European Times << plan to find solutions for the implementation of necessary reforms, putting nationalist disputes in the background. In the October 12th general election, the nationalist parties were the major victors.

"I welcome the overall orderly conduct of the elections. We now expect swift government formation at all levels, so that incoming authorities can address the real challenges that BiH faces. BiH must step up its efforts on its EU path," Peter Sorensen, former head of the EU Delegation to BiH, said.

"With their votes, citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina have chosen who they think is best to do the work and get the results we need. It is now up to those elected to deliver in the next four years," he told SETimes.

High Representative Valentin Inzko said the elections have taken the country into a radically different phase where the incoming government must break with the politics of the past.

He said work must begin without delay to address the continuing negative impact of the spring floods, to start repairing the country's neglected social and physical infrastructure and to tackle the scourges of unemployment, poverty and corruption.

"Citizens have exercised their right to choose those who will represent them during the next four years. Now begins the time where the incoming government needs to commit themselves to work in the best interests of the overwhelming majority in this country -- the ordinary, decent people who want to build a better future through hard work and respect for the rule of law. At the same time, citizens have a duty to hold those elected accountable for their promises," Inzko said.

The first step should be the quick formation of administrations at all levels with a focus on delivering concrete results for citizens in a manner that is fully in accordance with the law, Inzko told journalists after the election.

Experts said that while the results are not surprising, for many they are disappointing.

Mass demonstrations in February showed a deep dissatisfaction with the political elite and high levels of corruption. Analysts said protests could erupt again if the government does not start addressing corruption and economic problems in the country.

Zarko Papic, a political analyst, told SETimes that political parties in the country, apart from a few exceptions, have a stable base.

"The problem is that in BiH parties are not based on political principles. I'm not an optimist. Assuming that the government is immediately formed and begins to solve social and economic problems, it may be good, but it's hard to believe. I think it will all result in severe civil protests again," Papic said.

"It is not good to remain without social democratic ideas that require bold, bright and brave holders. Democracy is a broad term that requires open minds. This is just an extension of exclusivity and presence in fostering diversity," Sarajevo-based political analyst Esad Bajtal told SETimes.

What steps can the new government take to ensure quick reforms and the country's EU path? Tell us your thoughts below.
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