Ambassador Moon talks about BiH’s path forward with students and civic activists

December 15, 2011

Ambassador Moon talks with students and civic activists on the current situation in BiH, youth, leadership and the future.

On Thursday, December 15, 2011, Ambassador Moon led a discussion with over 200 students and civic activists on the current situation in BiH, youth, leadership and the future.  Ambassador Moon’s remarks reflected on the missed opportunities of the past year and how young people in BiH can make a difference.  The speech was followed by a long discussion between the Ambassador and students about concrete ways young people can work together to improve the situation in BiH.  The event took place at the Mechanical Engineering Faculty in Sarajevo.

How You Can Make a Difference in Bosnia and Herzegovina:
A Message to the Youth of This Country

I want to thank all of you for joining us today and, in particular, for giving me an hour of your time to discuss an issue that is at the top of U.S. agenda for the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina:  integration of Bosnia and Herzegovina into Europe, in particular, membership in NATO and the EU.  Nothing could be more important for strengthening democracy and the rule of law, bringing reform of the education system, promoting regional security and importantly promoting economic prosperity in Bosnia and Herzegovina.  In our view, all of you have a stake in these issues.

The results of the elections 14 months ago indicated that many citizens wanted change.  They did not want politics “as usual.”  The voters wanted to see their elected representatives working cooperatively on issues of importance to them.  Unfortunately, a tremendous amount of time and energy has been wasted since the elections in debates about the wrong issues – issues tied up in the “old” politics that have focused too much on divisive and nationalist issues instead of on the issues that citizens care about:  jobs; economic prosperity; better education; more efficient government services; a judicial system that serves the people and makes them feel more secure from everyday crime.  The political leaders have so far failed to deliver the change and progress the voters want.  

As a consequence, 2011 has in many ways been a lost year for Bosnia and Herzegovina.  We in the international community have on numerous occasions called on the political leaders to compromise, to reach agreement, and to put the interests of the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina above their personal and party interests.  These calls have yet to bear fruit even though political agreement is within reach.  A new Council of Ministers is still not formed and political leaders have not adequately addressed the most important economic questions and the high level of unemployment facing the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Instead of all key political actors joining together to pass the laws they all know will help achieve what they say they want to achieve, we see more delays.  Instead of proving their commitment to integration through action, we see inaction.  They have not met their responsibilities to the citizens to help this country move forward on the paths to NATO membership and EU accession in order for Bosnia and Herzegovina to take its rightful place as a full member of Europe.

Our role is to help Bosnia and Herzegovina and its people to move forward on NATO membership and on the European Union accession path.  This will strengthen democracy, improve the rule of law, bolster the economy, and make this country a better, more prosperous place for all of its people.  But, as Secretary Clinton said here a little over a year ago, Bosnians must do the work. 

The international community, and particularly the United States, can and will help, but we cannot do the work for you.  We are committed to supporting the EU Delegation as it works to advance Bosnia and Herzegovina down the path to EU accession.  We are also ready to work with any groups, NGOs, or political leaders that are truly committed to achieving the reforms necessary for NATO and EU membership. 

I want to use your presence here to talk about what really matters for this country and to see how we can join forces to make Bosnia and Herzegovina a better place for all of its citizens.  It is more and more clear that the citizens of this country must become more involved in leading the country forward.  We all know that you, the youth of Bosnia and Herzegovina, are the leaders of tomorrow.  You will lead Bosnia and Herzegovina into Europe.  But the time for leadership is now.  You can make a difference now.

Economic Challenges

Your role as leaders is critical because as politics stagnate, economic challenges continue to grow.  Daily life is not getting better.  You know that better than I do.  I hear almost every day that people are growing more and more frustrated.  Salaries are not keeping up with rising prices and job opportunities are shrinking.  Workers are having trouble making ends meet as their factories are closing, and students like you – the future of this country – are losing confidence in being able to find and compete for good jobs on a global economy.  

Political leaders are doing too little to improve the economy even though jobs and the economy are the most important issues for all citizens.  Similarly, the border of the European Union will soon be at the Sava River, and your leaders have not acted to deal with that or the European and global economic challenges we are all facing.  Croatia’s accession in 2013 is a big challenge but also an important opportunity for BiH.  What has Bosnia and Herzegovina done to prepare for Croatia’s EU membership and the changes it will bring for travel and commerce across an EU border?  What does it mean for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s agricultural industry and how will it impact your exports? 

These are real questions that require good answers and actions by your government.  As voters, you can and should be asking these kinds of questions.  You need to communicate your concerns to your elected officials and make them understand that you want them to serve your interests.

The leaders here need to begin to address the serious steps needed to allow BiH to take advantage of having the EU next door.  These are the kinds of answers people are waiting for.  But there has been little to no progress in getting real solutions to the economic challenges facing Bosnia and Herzegovina and its people.  Not having a Council of Ministers is symbolic of this problem.  How can this country’s leaders address hard economic challenges, when they cannot even agree on new leadership for the state-level government?

BiH Seen as Being Left Behind

This lack of progress could be dismissed by some as a minor delay on the road to integration.  But when we take a look around Bosnia and Herzegovina, we must realize how serious this political paralysis is.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is stagnating and falling behind its neighbors.  Serbia has made progress on its path to EU candidate status.  Montenegro is ahead of Bosnia and Herzegovina on its EU candidate status and NATO path, while Croatia is already in NATO and will soon to be an EU member.  People see that the region is moving forward while Bosnia and Herzegovina is being left behind.

Integration into Europe is the only viable option for Bosnia and Herzegovina.  As the Dayton framework makes clear, Bosnia and Herzegovina is one state, with two entities, and three constituent peoples.  Secession is not an option.  There is no separate path to the EU or NATO for the entities.  Bosnia and Herzegovina must move as a sovereign, unified state down the EU and NATO paths.  There is no alternative.

While cooperation between the entities will be essential to progress, Bosnia and Herzegovina can move forward as a decentralized country, with state-level institutions having the capacity to coordinate as necessary the work of both entities to achieve a necessarily shared set of goals.

Another problem, the rhetoric that fuels division, must stop.  Nationalism is a failed concept when its proponents use it to divide people based on ethnic, religious or other identities.  However, some political leaders still fall back on nationalist themes since they feel that that is easier than it is to fix the economy.  However, nationalist messages do not put bread on the table nor do they create jobs.

Just the opposite, nationalist rhetoric spreads mistrust, discontent, hinders cooperation and deters foreign investment.  In contrast, NATO and the EU are the two most successful multi-national organizations ever, and their success is based on cooperation among member countries to promote security, stability, and economic prosperity.  Why are some leaders disputing issues of little concern to most people instead of working hard to promote needed progress?  They should focus more on the real work to move this country and its people forward, and they must do so through dialogue, cooperation and compromise.

Missed Opportunities

Bosnia and Herzegovina lost two great opportunities this month.  A meeting of NATO Foreign Ministers and an EU summit last week were chances for Bosnia and Herzegovina to be recognized for progress. 

Meeting the EU’s conditions for implementation of the Stabilization and Association Agreement would have demonstrated that the country was ready for intensified engagement on the European path and that Bosnia and Herzegovina was politically stable and a good place to do business and invest.  EU candidate status will demand important reforms that will make governance more transparent and effective.  Perhaps more critically, EU candidate status will give Bosnia and Herzegovina access to additional kinds of EU support to help prepare BiH for full membership.  This support could help address critical needs such as improving road infrastructure, building new schools and developing the institutions needed to better serve the citizens of this country.

Progress on the path to NATO would also send a powerful signal of international confidence in domestic stability.  NATO, as a political alliance, will ensure that Bosnia and Herzegovina is part of an integrated security system that allows the country to benefit from participation while contributing to this integrated security structure.  It is to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s advantage to join neighboring countries which are on the NATO path as well.  Additionally, NATO membership has historically brought increased foreign investment to its newest members.

But instead of announcing progress that would directly benefit all citizens of BiH, NATO and the EU leaders last week were limited to saying what we have said repeatedly for the last 14 months: Bosnia and Herzegovina’s leaders must do more.

Your Responsibility for the Future

The responsibility for the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina falls not only on your political leaders, but also on you, the citizens.  As I said earlier, it is incumbent on the citizens of a democracy to do their part to move the country forward, to build civil society, to break down inter-ethnic barriers, to reform the education system, to open up the political system and change the political climate, and to help build a prosperous Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Young people here often tell me that political leaders do nothing for us; all they do is squabble over positions and power, instead of looking for the common good.  They never want to listen to what really matters to people, and are always trying to divide rather than unite.  It is easy to agree with that view.  It seems that for many politicians, compromise remains a dirty word, even when compromise can lead to both political progress and a way out from the economic crisis.

Fortunately, you, the young people of this country, are different.  The future of Bosnia and Herzegovina rests on your shoulders.  Today many of you are working to bring people together, bridging divides, seeking reforms, promoting volunteerism, and linking citizens in common causes, such as protecting human rights, promoting ecology issues or strengthening the rule of law.  You are dedicated to promoting change.

Young people also want to see government policies that promote entrepreneurship and political changes that translate into real leadership – not just lip service – toward the goals of NATO and EU membership.  Many of you are committed to moving beyond ethnic divisions to real cooperation in a multi-cultural society.  I am sure many of you here today also want real leadership and want to do your part.

Success is Possible

First, and I say this with all sincerity: I have faith in what you will do for this country.  I recognize the role you can play, for yourselves, for each other, and for future generations.  You may come from different faiths, ethnic groups, and backgrounds, but you share much more with your generation in BiH than you realize.  Your enthusiasm, abilities, commitment, dedication and fresh ideas offer me reassurance. 

There are many untapped opportunities for individuals, families, and communities to interact and work together to become driving forces in this society.  Activism through civic engagement, entrepreneurship, forming NGOs, and taking advantage of your democratic rights to vote are all very important ways to change this country for the better.

Second, as I mentioned, there are institutions here that you can be proud of.  For example, the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina is an organization that stands out and is a credit to this country.  Men and women from across BiH wear the same uniform, work together, and earn the same respect.  Their service in Afghanistan and Iraq has been remarkable.  At home, they have brought credit to themselves by fighting wildfires and floods, bringing drinking water to returnees, and removing land mines. 

Third, I would like to mention the mayors of this country.  Regardless of ethnic background or entity, many local elected officials have demonstrated a commitment to serving their communities by trying to spur investment, build housing for returnees or by creating links with their counterparts on the other side of the inter-entity boundary line.  One mayor converted buildings that formerly housed large state-owned enterprises into incubators for small businesses.  The city subsidies the rent, giving new businesses the support they need to get established.  With our help, many mayors have established one-stop shops for all municipal permit services.  As a result, citizens can now obtain all permits and licenses in one visit rather than making repeated trips over several weeks.

Recently, a group of mayors from across BiH went on an Embassy-sponsored program to the U.S.  When they returned, the mayors of Bosanski Petrovac, Cazin [TZAH-zeen], Domaljevac [doh-MAHL-yeh-vahts], Foca, Ravno, and Tomislavgrad began cooperating with one another to help their municipalities.  Similarly, I applaud the joint bid on the 2017 European Youth Winter Olympic Festival made by the City of Sarajevo and municipality of East Sarajevo.  These cooperative efforts demonstrate that progress is possible, and that in many municipalities you can find inspired leadership improving the lives of constituents.

What You Can Do

As I travel throughout the country, I clearly see that this country is part of Europe historically and culturally, but not yet politically.  We will help BiH become part of European institutions.

For those of you who want to help move this country forward but feel you are not empowered, I say become involved.  There are many examples of real successes achieved by citizen leaders.  And it is surprising how seemingly small steps can grow into big results.  How can you help?  There are many things you can do and here are a few examples.

Volunteer.  Pick an NGO, school or other civil society organization that engages on issues important to you and volunteer to help.  There are many options throughout the country.  If you choose to volunteer, invite your friends along. 

Be a role model and mentor.  Sometimes the most important thing you can do is to be a good example.  If you speak English, teach someone who does not.  Reach out to people younger than you to help with homework or just provide guidance.  You can make a huge difference in someone’s life.

Run a Facebook campaign and raise awareness.  Use Facebook or other social media tools to convince your friends to make a change on something you care about and that is important to your community.  Post articles that mean something to you, link to other campaigns, or start a movement of your own.

Communicate with political leaders.  Bosnia and Herzegovina is a democracy.  If you believe that change is important, it is your responsibility to tell your elected representatives.  Tell them what matters to you.  They may not always listen, but sometimes they do.  Moreover, if you don’t speak out, you’re part of the problem.  Be patient but be persistent. 

A step further, you can help hold politicians accountable.  Remember, they were elected to serve you.  Demand that they serve you and not just their political parties.  Insist that parties implement their stated policies and hold them accountable if they do not.  Engage and criticize parties when they do not serve the people, but only seek to create jobs for party members.  Become a party activist or work to get-out-the-vote during elections.

Donate money to important causes, no matter the amount.  Start a fund for a cause you feel is important.  Set aside as little as a half KM or 1 KM each week, or throw in your small change.  It starts to make a difference and forms lifelong habits.  This will also inspire your family members to do the same.

Use the political system to demand changes.  Learn how the system works so that you can influence it, whether at the university, municipality or other levels of authority.  Many agencies have youth offices or people dealing with youth.  Reach out to them.  Tell them what you want.  It is easy to blame the system when you do not take the simple steps needed to reach out to decision-makers.

Stay dedicated and develop your skills.  Change does not happen overnight.  Think of your contribution as a life-long commitment.  You are doing what you can at this moment and are preparing yourself to make bigger changes in the future.  Seek opportunities that help you develop your skills—whether how to plan an event, write a grant proposal, learn another language, or find out about other cultures.  Learn more about what interests you—whether it is the environment, health issues, youth unemployment or entrepreneurial skills.

By doing several of the above, you can be an active “change agent.”  Use your skills and commitment to help move Bosnia and Herzegovina forward by being part of the peaceful democratic process, with others, and by engaging in a sophisticated, productive dialogue.

There are many things you can do to help your country despite the challenges facing it.  Will the changes you want come as quickly as you want?  No.  But if citizens -- if you -- do not demand changes, they will never happen.  It is in your hands, and we will help.  Through our support, perhaps through our small grants funds, we can contribute.  I strongly encourage you to do your part.  That is how democracy works.  And you have the desire to move this country forward.  I know because that is what many of you and your colleagues tell me, and I have seen this commitment in action.

Optimism for BiH’s Future

It is fair to ask what exactly have I heard the youth of BiH say.  I have traveled throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina and have met with young people from Trebinje to Cazin [TZAH-zeen], from Glamoc to Bijeljina.  You are well informed and concerned about the future of BiH.  You are committed to constructive cooperation, looking for solutions that will ensure a peaceful, democratic and prosperous BiH.  Most importantly, you are not happy with the status quo.

I met with high school graduates in Brcko who were looking for jobs.  They were dissatisfied with the education system that does not prepare them for the competitive job market.  They were dissatisfied with political leaders who serve themselves and not the citizens.  They want and are committed to good inter-ethnic relations in their communities.

I met with university students in Mostar.  They are unhappy with community leaders who use divisive rhetoric.  They want to improve inter-ethnic relations and are dissatisfied with the economy and poor job prospects.  They are unhappy with the failure of political leaders to improve the situation in their community.  They are looking for ways to make a positive difference.

I met with high school students in Sarajevo who were outspoken and not shy in expressing their doubts about the future.  They are concerned about job prospects but want to stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina to help create a prosperous and democratic society.  They are dissatisfied with the failure of political leaders to move the country forward.

I met with college students in Banja Luka who are concerned about the use of nationalist rhetoric by political leaders.  They are working very hard to bring together young people from all over the country from all ethnic groups.  Although they are concerned about poor job and career prospects, they are determined to work hard to make a difference.  They are dissatisfied with the high prevalence of corruption in government.  They want no part of a government system that requires bribes to obtain a job. 

I met with dynamic young entrepreneurs.  They are very dissatisfied with entity and state laws and policies that discourage economic activity instead of encouraging private sector growth.  They work very hard to make their enterprises successful and to employ more people.  They are concerned because they must invest considerable resources to train new employees since the education system does not prepare students for the work place.  They seek to expand their business activities into both entities but differing laws and regulations, not to mention corruption and a lethargic bureaucracy, increase costs and impede growth.

I admit that these young people do not necessarily represent all of BiH’s youth, but they are well educated, smart, and ambitious.  They, like many citizens, want change and have tremendous potential to make a difference.  Political leaders need to respond to your concerns or get out of the way. 

Am I sometimes frustrated with political leaders?  Yes.  But I am inspired by the aspirations of young people throughout the country.  While some are apathetic, many others are working hard to make change happen.  You who work to make change happen are tomorrow’s leaders, and you make me optimistic about the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina.  The U.S. shares your aspirations and will help support you to achieve your goals.  Moreover, this is a message to all of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s citizens who want change, who support reforms, who believe Bosnia and Herzegovina must integrate into Europe: you are not alone.  The hard work must be done by the citizens of this country, but the U.S. and others in the international community are ready to help you achieve your aspirations. 

Thank you for your time: I look forward to your questions, comments, and ideas.