Unstable Bosnia-Herzegovina could be prey to Muslim militants, bishop warns

October 08, 2014

Political reform is necessary in Bosnia-Herzegovina, to ward off the threat of Islamic extremism, warns Bishop Franjo Komarica of Banja Luka.

Speaking with the international charity Aid to the Church in Need, Bishop Komarica said that Bosnia-Herzegovina is in “an absurd situation.” Unemployment is over 50%, corruption is widespread, and numerous government officials work against each other, blocking any effective reform.

“The political logjam and lack of legal certainty might radicalize groups and factions in society,” the bishops said. "There are people here who could exploit the instability. And we mustn't ignore the dark clouds arising to the southeast,” he added, alluding to Muslim militants.

Bishop Komarica spoke as Bosnia-Herzegovina prepares for elections on October 12. He said that the country’s bishops have encouraged people to “cast their vote for law and justice and to make sure the country does not get stuck in this disastrous situation."

 

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Further information:

• Bishop in Bosnia-Herzegovina: instability plays into the hands of the extremists (ACN)