BiH on the Brink of Losing 100 Million Euros Due to Political Deadlock
Bosnia and Herzegovina is on the edge of disaster – if political actors do not finalize the reform agenda, the country risks losing a staggering 100 million euros! Yes, you read that right – 100 million euros that could bring investments, prosperity, and higher salaries, but due to political bickering and blockades, the money will be redirected to other Western Balkan countries.
Who is sounding the alarm? Ambassadors from seven EU member states, known as the “Friends of the Western Balkans” group (Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Greece, Italy, Slovakia, and Slovenia), have made it clear that it is high time for BiH to adopt the reform agenda. This agenda is the key to accessing massive funds from the EU growth plan, which amounts to over one billion euros for BiH alone, aimed at improving infrastructure and economic development.
Why does this matter? These reforms are not just bureaucratic paperwork – they represent a chance for BiH to economically and socially align with the EU, attract investments, increase salaries, and improve living standards. All other Western Balkan partners, except BiH, have already adopted their reform agendas and moved forward with new investments. BiH, however, is lagging behind and risks being left on the sidelines of development.
Political games at the expense of citizens The Council of Ministers of BiH only recently adopted a revised reform agenda after cantonal governments in the Federation of BiH, influenced by the Party of Democratic Action (SDA), blocked the initial document. The new draft is now under discussion again, and deadlines for adoption are rapidly approaching. The ambassadors have publicly called on political leaders to urgently complete the process, as every day of delay means losing millions of euros that could benefit all citizens.
What happens if BiH fails to adopt the reforms? The money from the EU growth plan will not disappear – it will simply be redistributed to other countries in the region ready to implement reforms. This means BiH loses the opportunity for development, and citizens miss out on the benefits of European funds. In a world facing economic and geopolitical turmoil, BiH cannot afford to miss this chance.
EU and the Western Balkans: friends or mere observers? The “Friends of the Western Balkans” group has strongly supported BiH’s European path since 2018. In March this year, the EU decided to open accession negotiations with BiH, a major achievement. However, it is now crucial to maintain momentum and not let political games halt the process. The EU is ready to assist but demands concrete results – reforms that will bring real change.
What can citizens expect? If reforms are implemented, BiH can expect investments worth over one billion euros by the end of 2027. This means better roads, digital connectivity, financial stability, and access to the EU single market. All of this can lead to higher salaries and a better quality of life. But if blockades continue, citizens will be deprived of these benefits.
Conclusion: time to act! Politicians in BiH must realize they are playing with the country’s fate. The reform agenda must be urgently adopted and submitted to the European Commission. Every day of delay is a day BiH loses money and opportunities. Citizens deserve better – it’s time for politicians to stop playing games and start working for the good of all.
What do you think? Will politicians finally grasp the seriousness of the situation, or will we watch opportunities slip away again? Drop a comment, share your thoughts, and let’s shake things up together!
