With progress in Bosnia and Herzegovina stalled and even regressing, some hoped that the October 2010 presidential and parliamentary elections would be of “historic importance." This was seen as an opportunity for political change and for new elites to forge consensus on bringing the country’s reform efforts to fruition. Yet results were mixed; some are bracing for continued political deadlock in the country. The unprecedented engagement of civil society in pre-election activities generates optimism in others, who expect that the newfound momentum will open up possibilities for much needed reforms and the country’s progress towards EU membership.
The Open Society Foundations and the National Endowment for Democracy invite you to a discussion with Bosnian civic activists and political analysts. They will share their views on questions such as:
- What kind of government can Bosnia and Herzegovina expect to see after the October 2010 elections?
- Will constitutional reform efforts take place, and if so, what direction will they take?
- What can the civil society do to promote these reforms?
- What role should the international community play?
- Are the October 2010 elections the country’s chance for a new beginning?
Panelists
- Darko Brkan, president of the NGO “Zasto ne?” (“Why not?”) and organizer of “Dosta!” (“Enough!”) movement
- Nida Gelazis, senior associate of the European Studies Program at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars (moderator)
- Adnan Huskic, project coordinator, Friedrich Naumann Foundation
- Aleksandar Trifunovic, founder and author of the media project “Buka” (“Noise”)