Italy proposes new High Representative plan for Bosnia to EU members

Italy has put forward a proposal to European Union member states regarding the priorities for the next High Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The plan, detailed in a non-paper, aims to build consensus for the appointment of Antonio Zanardi Landi, who reportedly has the backing of the United States.

The document suggests that Landi would focus on completing the "5+2 agenda," a key condition for closing the Office of the High Representative (OHR). It also proposes reducing the OHR's role and scope. Notably, Landi would not overturn previous decisions by former High Representatives and would use "Bonn powers", the authority to impose laws and decisions, only in extreme cases, after consulting the Peace Implementation Council (PIC) Steering Board.

Landi's mandate would also prioritize Bosnia and Herzegovina's European path and integration processes. The Italian proposal envisions a two-year term for Landi, with a possibility for extension, while the closure of the OHR would remain contingent on fulfilling the 5+2 agenda. This agenda, adopted in 2008, sets out five key conditions and two objectives for Bosnia and Herzegovina to meet before the OHR's mandate can end.

According to reports, the Italian proposal seeks to make Landi more acceptable to other EU members. Some nations have expressed concerns that his potential actions might not align with the Union's policies. These worries are particularly linked to the possibility of Landi challenging decisions made by his predecessor, Christian Schmidt, including changes to Bosnia and Herzegovina's Criminal Code that led to charges against SNSD leader Milorad Dodik and his subsequent conviction, barring him from public office for six years. To address this, an additional document might be adopted alongside Landi's appointment to limit the reversal of past High Representative decisions.

The field also includes French candidate Rene Trokazi, who lacks U.S. support. His potential appointment could jeopardize financial aid to the OHR, further complicating the agreement. A new session of the PIC Steering Board is scheduled for tomorrow.

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Bonn powers