Bosnia’s Defence Chief Warns: Dodik’s Moves Endanger Stability

Defence Minister Zukan Helez accuses Milorad Dodik of exploiting nationalist rhetoric, threatening Bosnia’s unity and rekindling the dangerous narratives of the past.

As Bosnia and Herzegovina navigates the treacherous waters of post-war recovery, its people are haunted by the shadows of a conflict that tore their nation apart nearly three decades ago. The Dayton Agreement may have halted the bloodshed, but it also left the country fractured, both physically and politically. Today, the ethnic and political divisions that were forged in the fires of war continue to shape Bosnia's destiny, as the country struggles to build a future free from the ghosts of its past.

In the midst of rising tensions and political uncertainty, I travelled to Sarajevo to meet with Zukan Helez, Bosnia’s Minister of Defence. As the country grapples with threats to its territorial integrity and sovereignty—most notably from within its own borders—Helez stands at the forefront of efforts to maintain stability and security. Our conversation, candid and revealing, offered a glimpse into the challenges facing Bosnia and the complexities of its fragile peace.

Helez greeted me with a firm handshake and a calm demeanour that belied the seriousness of our discussion. As we began, I asked him how the Ministry of Defence is responding to the heightened tensions in Bosnia, particularly in light of recent provocations from the Republika Srpska. His response was measured, reflecting the gravity of the situation.

Bosnian Minister of Defence Zukan Helez spoke to Gunpowder Chronicles on Monday, April 8, 2024, in the capital Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, where he emphasised, "Bosnia's defence strategy is not just about military readiness but about ensuring stability and peace for all its citizens." (VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti) [© Licensable Image for Editorial Use Only]

"The Ministry of Defence, according to our constitution, has several key responsibilities," Helez began. "One of those is safeguarding the territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, its borders, and its sovereignty. We closely monitor the situation and ensure that our borders are secure, while police structures handle internal security."