OSCE Head of Mission Concludes Two-Day Visit to Banja Luka

BANJA LUKA, 9 December 2025 - Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ambassador Rick Holtzapple,  concluded a two-day visit to Banja Luka, reaffirming the Mission’s commitment to constructive engagement with institutions, political actors, academia, civil society, and religious communities in Republika Srpska.

During meetings with Draško Stanivuković, Mayor of Banja Luka; Srđan Mazalica, Head of the SNSD Caucus at the Republika Srpska National Assembly (RSNA) ; Igor Crnadak, Head of the PDP Caucus at the RSNA; Petar Đоkić, President of the Socialist Party; Branko Blanuša, SDS Candidate for RS President;  Bishop Jefrem, Banja Luka Orthodox Diocese; and Bishop Željko Majić, Banja Luka Catholic Diocese, Ambassador Holtzapple emphasized the importance of maintaining open dialogue, upholding the rule of law, and supporting democratic processes in the period following the 23 November early presidential elections. Interlocutors exchanged assessments on post-election dynamics, governance priorities, and opportunities for renewed co-operation and strengthening the inter-religious dialogue. Ambassador Holtzapple regrets that Siniša Karan, the SNSD candidate for RS president, was not available for a meeting during this visit.

Ambassador Holtzapple also visited the University of Banja Luka, where he met with the Rector Radoslav Gajanin and engaged with students during the event “Next Gen Perspectives: Why the OSCE Mission Still Matters in BiH.” Discussions highlighted the role of youth in shaping a democratic, stable, and inclusive future for the country.

Ambassador welcomed the de-escalation of political tensions and stressed that credible, functioning institutions are essential for serving citizens and advancing BiH’s stability and progress.

Across all engagements, the Head of Mission reiterated that the OSCE Mission acts as a principled, impartial, and long-term partner. He underscored the Mission’s readiness to support dialogue, trust-building, and technical assistance within the constitutional and legal framework of Bosnia and Herzegovina.