Serb separatist Dodik declares victory in Bosnia vote as ethnic tensions, EU hopes collide
Bosnian Serb nationalist politician Milorad Dodik has declared victory for his party in an election in Bosnia and Herzegovina on Sunday that was shaped by economic pressures, the prospect of the Balkan nation joining the European Union and ethnic tensions that have divided the country since its brutal 1992–95 war. Dodik is a staunchly pro-Russia politician who, despite not appearing on the…
Bosnian Serb nationalist Milorad Dodik has declared his party victorious in Bosnia and Herzegovina's recent election, which saw ethnic tensions and EU aspirations collide. Despite not being on the ballot, Dodik has dominated the campaign with pro-Russia rhetoric, fueling fears of renewed instability in the country. As the president of Republika Srpska, Dodik was barred from public office after a conviction for defying international peace agreement decisions.
With nearly 90% of votes counted, his ally, Zeljka Cvijanovic, secured over 55% of votes, narrowly leading her opponent by about 30 percentage points. Dodik's party is expected to secure a majority in Republika Srpska's assembly, crediting US President Donald Trump's 2024 victory and Russian President Vladimir Putin's backing for his win.
Dodik vowed to continue his nationalist politics, dismissing attempts to change course. Bosnia's election featured electronic voter identification and ballot scanners to prevent irregularities, but polling place disruptions due to technical issues were reported. The election, which saw a 42% turnout, was the first to utilize these new technologies.
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