Determined to avoid a “lost generation,” Commissioner Marta Kos delivered a candid address to the Parliament of Bosnia and Herzegovina on 24 September 2025, emphasizing the urgency for concrete political reforms to advance the country's stalled EU accession process. Drawing from extensive grassroots engagement across Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kos shared a narrative reflecting both the hopes of young citizens who aspire to EU membership and the stark realities of political stagnation, corruption, and institutional challenges holding the country back.
Concrete reform deadlines tied to significant EU funding Kos underscored the high stakes involved: the EU has earmarked €1 billion under its Growth Plan for investments in infrastructure, energy, and connectivity in Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, this funding is conditional on the adoption of a Reform Agenda, with a 10% budget cut already enforced due to delays and a further 10% reduction looming if reforms are not submitted by 30 September 2025. This introduces a clear, measurable target with a firm deadline aimed at pressuring national leaders to act swiftly.
Policy orientation favors stronger rule of law and institutional reform The Commissioner called for legislative action in line with EU standards, including laws on courts and the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council. She emphasized respect for Constitutional Court decisions and stronger domestic ownership of EU integration—a stance that sets a trajectory towards increasing the strength and independence of judicial institutions. There is a clear push to shift Bosnia and Herzegovina from international supervision to a modern, functional governance model.
Cleavages between EU integration and national sovereignty highlighted Kos addressed concerns originating from Republika Srpska, urging its engagement in the integration process while condemning actions undermining the constitutional order. This tension illustrates the ongoing cleavage between advancing EU powers and regional/nationalist political resistance within Bosnia and Herzegovina, a dynamic directly impacting the country’s political cohesion and reform pace.
Stakeholder impact and trade-offs - EU institutions gain a stronger negotiating partner if reforms advance, facilitating the enlargement agenda and regional stability. - National authorities face increased pressure to implement reforms under imminent financial cuts and negotiating constraints. - Economic sectors stand to benefit from improved infrastructure and reduced transaction costs (e.g., SEPA payments, roaming fees), yet delays in reforms risk the redeployment of funds to neighboring countries, disadvantaging local businesses. - Citizens, especially youth, could experience enhanced opportunities and engagement locally but currently face continued emigration due to political inaction and economic stagnation.
Kos’s speech balances optimistic calls for cooperation with explicit warnings about the real cost of political inertia, making her position a pivotal moment that could shape Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU trajectory for years to come.
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