UN Security Council Extends EUFOR Althea Mandate in Bosnia and Herzegovina

UN Security Council Renews EUFOR Althea Mandate

The United Nations Security Council has unanimously voted to extend the mandate of the European Union Force (EUFOR) Althea in Bosnia and Herzegovina for another year. The decision, formalized through Resolution 2757 (2024) on November 1, 2024, authorizes the multinational stabilization force to continue its critical operations until November 2, 2025. This renewal underscores the international community's commitment to peace and stability in the Western Balkans region.

Mission and Objectives of EUFOR Althea

Established on December 2, 2004, as the successor to NATO's Stabilization Force (SFOR), EUFOR Althea's primary objective is to oversee the military implementation of the 1995 General Framework Agreement for Peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina, commonly known as the Dayton Agreement. The mission is tasked with contributing to a Safe And Secure Environment (SASE) across Bosnia and Herzegovina. Its mandate includes deterrence, ensuring continued compliance with the Dayton/Paris Agreement, and providing capacity building and training to the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina (AF BiH), supporting their progression towards NATO standards. The force comprises approximately 1,100 troops from 22 countries, including both EU member states and non-EU contributing nations.

Context and Challenges in Bosnia and Herzegovina

The Security Council's decision followed a review of the political, security, and economic situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Discussions highlighted ongoing concerns regarding secessionist rhetoric and actions, particularly within the Republika Srpska entity, and persistent political divisions that pose challenges to the country's stability. Despite these complexities, delegates welcomed the peaceful conduct of local elections on October 6, 2024, even in the aftermath of severe floods and landslides. The unanimous vote for the mandate extension is seen as a strong signal of international support for Bosnia and Herzegovina's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as its path toward European Union membership.

International Support and Future Outlook

The unanimous adoption of the resolution by all 15 members of the Security Council reflects a broad consensus on the necessity of EUFOR Althea's continued presence. This consensus was reached despite previous pressures from some member states, notably Russia and China, regarding the role of the High Representative. The mission remains a cornerstone of the comprehensive international approach to Bosnia and Herzegovina, working in close cooperation with local authorities to foster a stable, viable, peaceful, and multi-ethnic country. The extension ensures that EUFOR Althea can continue its vital role in maintaining security and supporting the country's reform efforts as it progresses towards greater European integration.