By Cero Harun
Political analyst, based in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Milorad Dodik has once again escalated his long-planned campaign for full secession from the central state of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Backed by the Kremlin (not only), he has taken steps to block state authorities from operating in Republika Srpska, threatening our stability and security.
In the midst of global turbulence, as the world grapples with the complex crisis in Ukraine and the uncertain future of European security, Dodik has taken advantage of the chaos to push his dangerous agenda. His latest move—the signing of a law passed by the RS entity legislature barring Bosnian state institutions from operating on the territory of Republika Srpska—represents a blatant attack on the constitutional order of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This illegal act prevents the work of state police forces (SIPA), courts, and the prosecutor’s office, further eroding the rule of law.
It is now clearer than ever that Dodik does not intend to stop. His ambitions go far beyond mere rhetoric.
But we must not fall for his provocations. At this critical moment in our history, we should remain calm. Now is the time for unity, wisdom, and firm action by the legitimate institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina, along with responsible and sober-minded politicians from both of our entities, in cooperation with the international community. We must stand together to put an end to the terror and destabilization orchestrated by Milorad Dodik and his ruling coalition.This is exactly what he wants—chaos, division, and fear. Instead, we must stay calm, united, and demand strong action:
- Bosnian institutions must act decisively to defend our sovereignty.
- Responsible leaders from both entities must reject Dodik’s reckless path.
- The international community must recognize the urgency of this threat, take action and be the EFFECTIVE HELPER THEY PROMISED TO BE, WITH BOSNIAN INSTITUTIONS AND POLITICIANS IN THE LEAD.
The time for hesitation is over. Dodik’s terror must end. Bosnia and Herzegovina belongs to all its citizens, and we will not allow corruption and separatism to destroy our future.
I remember interviewing former German Foreign Minister Klaus Kinkel in 2018 while working as a journalist for Al Jazeera. As the minister during the Balkan wars, he reflected on his decisions in one of his final interviews before his passing. When I asked him what he would have done differently regarding the war in Bosnia if he could turn back time, he replied:
“A lot of things. Unfortunately, it’s no longer possible.”
My message now to Europe’s current leaders: It is possible. Help make it right.
