First reactions to the verdict against Dodik: EU calls for respect for the rule of law

Sarajevo (Fena) – The European Union has stated that it is aware of the criminal sentence imposed by the Appellate Chamber of the Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina on the President of the Republic of Srpska Milorad Dodik, and emphasized that the sentence is binding and must be respected by all.

– The sentence is binding and must be respected. The European Union calls on all parties to recognize the independence and impartiality of the Court, and to fully respect and implement its ruling – stated Anitta Hipper, the chief spokesperson for foreign affairs and security policy of the EU.

After the Appellate Chamber confirmed the earlier ruling that sentenced Milorad Dodik to one year in prison and imposed a six-year ban on holding the position of President of the Republic of Srpska, the United Kingdom also responded.

– All relevant institutions and actors must support the rule of law and act in accordance with the ruling without delay – announced the British Ambassador to BiH, Julian Reilly, via platform X.

Let us recall, the Court of BiH previously found Dodik guilty of failing to implement the decisions of the High Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, thereby undermining the constitutional order and threatening the institutions of the state, according to the ruling.

The Institute for Research of Genocide Canada (IGK) in its statement noted that the ruling confirms that Milorad Dodik poses a serious threat to the legal order and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina. – This is not just a ruling against the president of the RS entity, but also a clear message to all those who attempt to undermine the sovereignty and statehood of Bosnia and Herzegovina from within – stated IGK, calling on the relevant institutions to implement the final ruling without delay. (1.8.)