SARAJEVO, 20 February 2026 -The OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Switzerland's Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, today concluded his visit to Sarajevo, where he met with members of the Bosnia and Herzegovina Presidency, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and leadership of the Central Election Commission. He also visited the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina to discuss the Organization's ongoing work in the country.
In his meeting with the Bosnia and Herzegovina Presidency, the Chairman-in-Office emphasized the importance of respecting the constitutional framework, avoiding divisive narratives and guaranteeing the functionality of State level institutions, as well as focusing on key reforms leading to tangible progress for all citizens.
In his meeting with the Central Election Commission, Chairman-in-Office Cassis discussed the October 2026 general elections, with a particular focus on electoral integrity, and the Organization's support for democratic processes through the OSCE Mission and the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).
Throughout his visit, the Chairman-in-Office reaffirmed the OSCE's support for the Dayton Peace Agreement and the Constitution of Bosnia and Herzegovina. He stressed the importance of constructive dialogue, respect for democratic institutions, and adherence to international commitments.
"The OSCE remains firmly committed to Bosnia and Herzegovina's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence. This is best exemplified by the continued efforts driven by our Mission," the Chairman-in-Office stated. "The OSCE has worked with Bosnia and Herzegovina for over 30 years, supporting peace and stability alongside local authorities, civil society, and international partners and this will remain the course of our partnership with the country and its institutions."
The Chairman-in-Office also visited the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, where he was briefed on the Mission's work on a host of areas, including security co-operation, democratization, elections, rule of law, human rights, education and environmental protection.
The Chairman-in-Office's visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina is part of Switzerland's 2026 OSCE Chairpersonship priorities to strengthen security and stability across the OSCE region.
