Full statement delivered by Her Excellency Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Permanent Representative of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana at the Open Debate of the United Nations Security Council on the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Mr. President,

Thank you for convening this meeting. I also thank High Representative Christian Schmidt for his report on the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

We welcome the participation of the Chairman of the Presidency, Mr. Denis Bećirović and also the representatives of Serbia, Croatia and the European Union.

Guyana welcomes the positive developments in Bosnia and Herzegovina, notably the March 2024 decision of the European Council to open accession negotiations with the country. We view accession as an important step that can contribute to transforming the socio-economic landscape of Bosnia and Herzegovina. We therefore commend the authorities for their work thus far towards EU integration and encourage continued collaboration for achieving this common goal.

While we note the positive developments, we remain concerned about the reported divisive rhetoric which, among other things, exacerbates ethnic tensions in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the wider Balkan region and jeopardizes gains made in the peacebuilding process. Guyana underscores the importance of upholding the provisions of the General Framework Agreement for Peace (GFAP) and urges all relevant stakeholders to act in accordance with those provisions.

As a multiethnic society, Guyana understands the potential of divisive rhetoric to disrupt social cohesion and harmony and to threaten multiculturalism. We urge the political leaders to prioritize the national interests of all citizens. Special attention should be paid to the younger generation, equipping them with the tools necessary so they can contribute to building a society of cultural and ethnic unity. In this regard, Guyana stresses the importance of constructive dialogue to address divergent views in a peaceful manner.

Mr. President,

Guyana acknowledges the March 26 Decree issued by High Representative Schmidt to amend the Electoral Laws of Bosnia and Herzegovina. We note that these measures are aimed at modernizing the electoral system and bolstering election integrity by, inter alia, enhancing gender equality, electronic ballot counting, electronic voter identification and video surveillance.

We welcome any measure that will enhance political stability and enable all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina to have equal rights in an electoral process.

We are concerned by the report of the High Representative about the low participation of women at different levels of Government. Given the important contributions that women make to the development of a country across all sectors, Guyana encourages their representation and full participation in decision-making processes at all levels.

We wish the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina a successful preparation for and conduct of the local elections to be held in October.

Mr. President,

2025 will mark 30 years since the signing of the Dayton Peace Agreement which continues to provide a solid framework for reconciliation, peace and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina. While progress has been achieved, its implementation has been uneven. The coming year will be an opportune moment for the Council to further analyze the shortcomings in implementation and bolster our efforts to support Bosnia and Herzegovina’s path towards lasting peace and stability.

Guyana reaffirms its commitment to the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina and urges the international community to remain steadfast in its support to foster an environment where peace can flourish and where the sovereignty of the country is respected.

Thank you.