Christian Schmidt, the international envoy to Bosnia and Herzegovina, has dismissed media reports suggesting he may soon leave his post, saying he intends to stay and fulfill his mandate, particularly in support of Bosnia’s EU integration and implementation of the Dayton Peace Agreement.
“My mandate is ongoing. I will remain until it is fulfilled, especially if I can contribute to European integration and the obligations stemming from the Dayton Agreement,” Schmidt told the Sarajevo-based daily Avaz.
Some media outlets in Bosnia and Herzegovina have reported that Schmidt, whom officials in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina recognize as the High Representative and those in the Serb-majority Republika Srpska refer to as a “tourist,” may soon be stepping down as a result of talks between major powers, particularly the United States and Russia.
Asked directly whether he expects to remain in office through Bosnia’s next general elections in 2026, Schmidt said, “I cannot guarantee it, but there is a strong likelihood that I will. The integrity of the elections requires international engagement, and I am ready to contribute.”
Republika Srpska has consistently refused to recognize Schmidt’s authority, citing the absence of a United Nations Security Council resolution confirming his appointment—unlike previous High Representatives, all of whom had such backing.