The United States Department of State’s 2023 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices for Bosnia and Herzegovina outlines a complex landscape of political and legal challenges. The report highlights that authorities in the Republika Srpska entity undertook sustained actions that undercut national institutions and increased interethnic tensions. Specifically, escalating verbal and legal attacks by Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik were cited as undermining the federation’s constitutional order, while divisive rhetoric from other leaders contributed to heightened political and ethnic tensions throughout the country. Despite these tensions, a federation government was formed on April 28, ending a four-year period of institutional blockage.

The report identifies serious problems regarding the independence of the judiciary. A notable example cited is a July 5 ruling by the Constitutional Court, which determined that Sarajevo Canton violated the right of Boris Cilic to a fair trial in a civil proceeding. This case illustrates the ongoing scrutiny of judicial processes within the country’s multi-level governance structure.

Human rights issues also include credible reports of torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment of detainees by police. The European Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT) noted in May that there were no indications security forces had ended the practice of severely mistreating detainees and prisoners, a concern reported in previous years. The CPT further highlighted a continued lack of effective action implementing recommendations from its 2019 visit, particularly regarding ill-treatment by police officers.

Additionally, the report points to serious restrictions on free expression and media freedom, including violence and threats against journalists, as well as the adoption of laws criminalizing defamation. Substantial interference with the freedom of peaceful assembly and association was also documented. These findings collectively paint a picture of a nation grappling with institutional fragility and significant human rights deficits, despite recent political developments.