New High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina to be decided Thursday

The international community's selection process for a new high representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina is nearing its conclusion, with a decision expected Thursday after a council meeting in Sarajevo. The process is marked by significant disagreements between European nations and the United States regarding the extent of the role's authority and its future scope.

Christian Schmidt, the outgoing high representative, resigned in May, citing immense and unexpected pressure from Washington. The Office of the High Representative was created in 1995 to oversee the implementation of the Dayton peace agreement, which ended the Bosnian War. The high representative possesses broad powers, including the ability to impose laws and dismiss elected officials.

Schmidt frequently exercised these powers, particularly in disputes with Bosnian Serb leader Milorad Dodik, an ally of Moscow. Russia has called for the immediate closure of the Office of the High Representative, while the U.S. supports its continuation but advocates for a gradual transfer of powers to local institutions. Bosnian Serb and Croat leaders also seek to abolish or curtail the post, whereas Bosnian (Muslim) officials wish to preserve its authority.

European officials emphasize that the new high representative should embody Bosnia and Herzegovina's aspiration to join the European Union. Two potential candidates have been mentioned: Antonio Zanardi Landi, former Italian ambassador to Moscow and Belgrade, reportedly backed by Washington, and René Troccaz, a French diplomat and special envoy for the Western Balkans. The outcome of this appointment will significantly influence Bosnia's political trajectory and its relationship with the EU.