Thirty years ago, the General Framework Agreement for Peace (GFAP) ended the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina: a war that brought back to European soil the darkest chapters of our past, such as systematic crimes against the civilian population and the genocide in Srebrenica. The Agreement ensured lasting peace and helped Bosnia and Herzegovina to face the challenges of a difficult reconstruction.
Italy continues to support the territorial integrity, sovereignty and stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The most visible example of this commitment is our military contingent in the EUFOR Althea Mission, which we will take the lead in 2026. Italy supports the High Representative in ensuring complete respect for the GFAP and carrying out his mandate, which was established by the Agreement itself.
The time has come for Bosnia and Herzegovina to look ahead to a future of prosperity, reconciliation and democracy. There is only one way to ensure this: full membership of the European Union – a path that Bosnia and Herzegovina autonomously chose years ago. Italy, also within the framework of the “Friends of the Western Balkans” initiative, fully supports the European path of Bosnia and Herzegovina. We encourage all local political actors to dialogue and renew their focus on advancing those long-awaited reforms that will open the door to accession negotiations.
