On 16 Oct 2025, the Standing Group on Atrocity Crimes published a special briefing on the critical threats facing Bosnia – from ethno-nationalist separatists within and Russian-supported interference from without – and the steps the UK Government should immediately take to reaffirm the rule of law and maintain the peace, consistent with the Dayton Peace Agreement of 14 Dec 1995, in support of the Bosnian state.
The recommended steps are specifically concerned with preventing instability which could lead to the re-occurrence of conflict and, if so, potentially atrocity crimes, which is even more salient given that this year marks the 30-year anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide, as well as the ratification of the peace negotiated at Dayton.
On 22 Oct 2025, the UK Government will host the London Leaders’ Summit for the six Western Balkans States and European partners, under the Berlin Process. The UN Security Council is scheduled to hold its semi-annual debate on BiH in early Nov 2025 where the main agenda item will be the vote to reauthorise the EU-led multinational stabilisation force (EUFOR Althea), as its current mandate expires on 2 Nov 2025. Discussions are also expected to focus on the country’s political situation, particularly regarding the Office of the High Representative (OHR) and its continued mandate. Russia is being heavily lobbied by ethno-nationalist separatists in Bosnia to veto the mandates of both EUFOR and the OHR.
The Standing Group’s Executive Committee commissioned the briefing as part of its discretionary and limited mandate to intervene in situations of grave concern where they relate to the risk of atrocity crimes impacting international peace and security.
A version of the briefing has been sent to relevant stakeholders.
The briefing was drafted by Aarif Abraham, Dr Kurt Bassuener, PhD and Dr Valery Perry. It was kindly reviewed by Baroness Helena Kennedy LT KC, Prof. Christine Chinkin and Prof. Payam Akhavan.
