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2. Is there a willingness among Bosnia’s politicians for reforms?
A: In theory yes. In practice, it depends on which ones. They
dislike proposals that weaken their own hold on power and patronage.
But only by doing that, in particular with respect to
state-controlled companies, can Bosnia begin to function more
effectively.
3. Is the request from EU for reform through this initiative modest
or far reaching one?
A: It seems to me modest in conception. Brussels is trying to make
these initial steps easy, in order to get Bosnia into the EU
accession process faster. It did something similar for Serbia. I
wish it would do it for Macedonia, which truly deserves it.
4. What does the US think about the initiative (I was told US are
not so happy about it)?
A: I think well-informed Americans would have preferred something
more far-reaching, including amendment of the constitution to reduce
ethnic vetoes and clarify the central government’s authority to
negotiate and implement the acquis communitaire. The Americans are
more pro-European than the Europeans, at least right now.
5. Is an idea to reform economy and social sector, without at this
stage touching constitutional issues, a wise one?
A: Let’s wait and see. Those of us who have wanted constitutional
changes haven’t produced brilliant results. Let someone else try a
new trick.
6. What if this initiative fails?
A: I suppose someone will propose something else. Meanwhile, Bosnia
and Herzegovina is falling well behind in the regatta to join the
EU. That is unfortunate, but its citizens need to find a way to take
the helm and get the politicians to row harder. |
