Statement by ALDA and the three Local Democracy Agencies based in Bosnia and Herzegovina

“The Association of Local Democracy Agencies (ALDA) and the three Local Democracy Agencies based in Bosnia and Herzegovina are deeply worried about the on-going protests in the country. This situation is a direct consequence of the current economic, social and political difficulties, and at the same time of the lack of actions from the institutions.

We call for a non-violent resolution of the protests, and we condemn the exploitation of citizens’ dissatisfaction and rage in the pursuit of political agendas, as well as to heighten ethnic divisions. We strongly encourage the start of a dialogue involving political institutions and the whole civil society.

Since their establishment, the Local Democracy Agencies based in Mostar, Prijedor, and Zavidovići have been supporting cooperation between local authorities and civil society, promoting local democracy, respect for human rights, and sustainable development.” […]