Christian Schmidt, Bosnia and Herzegovina's high representative, said on Tuesday he will resign in June 2026 after five years in the post. [1, 2]
The Office of the High Representative confirmed the planned exit on Monday, saying Schmidt will leave after five years in office. [1]
Schmidt said the decision was personal and told the UN Security Council that a process to identify a successor is already under way. [2]
"I took my personal decision to end my mandate as High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina," Schmidt said, adding that the country is "moving along a narrowing path" and that "potentially disruptive tensions remain an issue of concern." [2]
He also warned that the leadership of Republika Srpska continues to question Bosnia's territorial integrity and to undermine stability and reform prospects. [2]
The high representative post was created after the 1992-95 Bosnian War to oversee the Dayton Peace Agreement. The office carries sweeping powers, including the authority to impose laws and dismiss officials. Schmidt has been a contentious figure in Republika Srpska because his appointment was not confirmed by the UN Security Council. [1]
Schmidt also said election technologies should be introduced before Bosnia's Oct. 26 general elections. [2]
