Bosnia's High Representative Louis Crishock asserts full powers amid appointment delay

Interim High Representative Louis Crishock, appointed on 30 June as temporary successor to Christian Schmidt, said the Office of the High Representative continues to hold its full executive authority in Bosnia and Herzegovina. He warned that the extensive powers – including imposing decisions, legislation and dismissing officials – will be used if the Dayton peace accord or the country's stability is seriously threatened.

The Peace Implementation Council’s board is expected to name a permanent High Representative by 14 July, but Crishock noted that disagreement among key European states and the United States makes it unclear whether the deadline will be met, and the timeline could be extended.