The Initiative for monitoring the EU integration of Bosnia and Herzegovina condemns the adoption of the Draft Law on the Special Register and Publicity of Non-Profit Organizations, known as the Foreign Agents Law, by the Government of the Republika Srpska entity.
The Republika Srpska Government is ignoring the voices of non-governmental organizations that have clearly called for the rejection of such an unacceptable law. In addition to the the Crime of defamation Law, which directly threatens the freedom of expression of citizens and puts pressure on media freedom, the authorities of the Republika Srpska, through the so-called Foreign Agents Law, continue to pursue political processes that are in direct conflict with Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU path.
In addition to this law, the Law on Referendum and Civic Initiative and the Electoral Law of the Republika Srpska have been adopted, creating a parallel system in the country and directly encroaching on the competencies of the Central Election Commission.
The Law on immunity has also been adopted, which will provide complete protection from legal proceedings and de facto impunity before the law for elected and appointed officials.
Such laws send a clear message of a lack of political will to align with the EU standards and values, creating obstacles on the path to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU perspective.
By adopting laws that contradict EU values, the foundations of an open and democratic society are undermined, creating an atmosphere of fear and self-censorship among citizens.
The Initiative for Monitoring the EU Integrations of Bosnia and Herzegovina calls on the National Assembly of the Republika Srpska to reconsider its approach and chosen political direction, to respect the clearly expressed views and voices of the civil sector opposed to these legislative solutions, and to refocus on the process of adopting reforms defined through the 14 priorities outlined in the European Commission’s Opinion.