The Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (Mission), Ambassador Rick Holtzapple, conducted a two-day visit to Banja Luka, engaging with senior Republika Srpska (RS) officials, political representatives, institutions, civil society and media.
Ambassador Holtzapple met with RS Prime Minister Savo Minić, Minister of Justice Goran Selak, Minister of Interior Željko Budimir, and IDDEEA Director Almir Badnjević, focusing on rule of law, institutional legitimacy and functionality, judicial integrity, anti-corruption, electoral integrity and digital governance. Throughout his meetings, Ambassador Holtzapple emphasized the importance of finalizing pending democratic processes to ensure the legitimacy and constitutionality of the RS Government and, thereby, of all subsequent decisions.
The Head of Mission also met with representatives of parliamentary and extra-parliamentary parties, including SDS President Branko Blanuša, PSS leader Igor Radojičić, and Narodni Front President Jelena Trivić, to discuss current dynamics, preparations for the 2026 general elections, and broader political and institutional stability, constitutionality and legality in RS.
Engagement with civil society organizations and human rights defenders on fundamental human rights and freedoms highlighted the importance of inclusive dialogue, citizen participation and the protection of human rights defenders, who have a critical role in the current political context.
The visit also included meetings with media representatives, reinforcing the Mission's commitment to media freedom, responsible journalism, transparency, and democratic processes and principles.
The two-day programme highlighted the Mission's continued support for accountability and good governance, constructive dialogue and the promotion of democratic standards across RS and Bosnia and Herzegovina
