Congress Must Act Now: Protect U.S. Interests and Bosnia in the Western Balkans
Congress Must Act Now: Protect U.S. Interests and Bosnia in the Western Balkans
The Issue
AMERICA MUST ACT FOR BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
A Call to Action: Safeguarding America's National Security and Economic Interests in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Western Balkans
“DEFEND THE PEACE. EXPOSE CORRUPTION. END IMPUNITY. DEMAND ACCOUNTABILITY.
A CALL TO THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS AND THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION
350,000 BOSNIAN AMERICANS. ONE UNITED VOICE. A DEMAND FOR ACTION.
We, the undersigned citizens of the United States, call on our elected representatives and federal law-enforcement agencies to take meaningful, measurable action to protect peace, sovereignty, and democratic governance in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
THE DAYTON PEACE AGREEMENT MUST NOT BE ALLOWED TO ERODE THROUGH IMPUNITY, CORRUPTION, OR - “MALIGN FOREIGN INTERFERENCE AND INFLUENCE
Milorad Dodik's documented confrontations with Bosnia and Herzegovina's state institutions have raised serious concerns about the country's constitutional order and the durability of the peace established at Dayton. The United States has previously imposed sanctions in response to conduct it identified as corrupt or threatening to Bosnia and Herzegovina's stability.
Equally troubling are efforts to use high-profile lobbyists and political connections to secure the removal of U.S. sanctions without meaningful accountability. Published reports suggest that prominent American political figures, lobbyists, and legal representatives involved in efforts associated with the Republika Srpska government’s campaign to lift U.S. sanctions.
On September 25, 2026, the Constitutional Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina reaffirmed a fundamental principle of constitutional governance: taxpayer funds must not be used to undermine the very state and constitutional order they are entrusted to serve. The Court ruled that the use of Republika Srpska’s public budget funds to finance foreign lobbying and campaigns advocating secession violates Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Constitution. The ruling underscores the obligation of public officials to uphold the rule of law, respect the country's sovereignty and constitutional order, and ensure accountability in the use of taxpayers’ money.
These developments raise fundamental questions about whether political influence and paid lobbying are being used to undermine the objectives of U.S. sanctions and weaken accountability for actions that threaten Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and constitutional order.
Sanctions must not become negotiable through political access, financial influence, or backroom arrangements. Any decision to impose, maintain, or lift sanctions must be guided by verifiable conduct, transparent standards, and demonstrable progress toward respecting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s constitutional framework and the Dayton Peace Agreement—not by the influence of powerful individuals or their political connections.
We therefore call on U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the Department of Justice, and members of Congress to examine the lobbying activities undertaken on behalf of Republika Srpska, assess whether all applicable disclosure and legal requirements have been met, and investigate credible allegations of corruption or improper influence where evidence warrants.
The United States must remain steadfast in defending the peace it helped establish. The Dayton Peace Agreement is not a bargaining chip, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty is not for sale, and accountability must never be sacrificed for political convenience.
SIX URGENT PRIORITIES FOR U.S. LEADERSHIP AND ACTION
1. CONGRESS MUST TAKE A CLEAR STAND
We urge Congress to advance a bipartisan resolution condemning actions that threaten Bosnia and Herzegovina's sovereignty, territorial integrity, democratic institutions, or the Dayton Peace Agreement.
Congress must make clear that efforts to undermine the country's constitutional order will not be met with indifference.
2. TREASURY MUST FOLLOW THE MONEY
We call on the U.S. Department of the Treasury to review available evidence concerning Dodik's financial and business networks, potential sanctions evasion, and the use of intermediaries or third-country entities to conceal assets or circumvent restrictions.
Where evidence supports further action, Treasury should use its lawful authorities to investigate, enforce existing sanctions, and consider additional measures.
3. THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE MUST REVIEW CREDIBLE EVIDENCE
We ask the Department of Justice to assess credible allegations of corruption-related financial crimes, money laundering, sanctions violations, and unlawful foreign influence where U.S. jurisdiction applies.
No individual should receive special treatment because of political position, wealth, or international connections. Any investigation must be independent, evidence-based, and consistent with due process.
4. FOREIGN INTERFERENCE MUST BE EXAMINED
We call for scrutiny of credible evidence concerning malign foreign support for activities that may undermine Bosnia and Herzegovina's institutions, circumvent U.S. sanctions, or threaten stability in the Western Balkans.
Malign foreign influence and interference by Russia, China, and Iran pose serious challenges to the sovereignty, stability, and democratic institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the wider Western Balkans. These activities raise significant concerns for America's national security, strategic interests, and economic investments in the region. Countering foreign interference, combating corruption, strengthening the rule of law, and ensuring accountability are essential to protecting American interests and preserving lasting peace and regional stability.
The United States must understand whether financial relationships, political coordination, disinformation, or other forms of foreign influence are contributing to instability—and respond where warranted.
5. ETHNIC DIVISION MUST NOT BECOME A POLITICAL WEAPON
We urge U.S. leaders to oppose efforts by any political actor to inflame ethnic tensions, threaten democratic institutions, or weaken the constitutional framework that sustains peace.
This petition does not target any ethnic group or community. It stands for the equal rights, security, dignity, and democratic future of all people in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
6. ACCOUNTABILITY MUST HAVE CONSEQUENCES
We ask the Administration to review the effectiveness of existing sanctions and diplomatic measures, identify enforcement gaps, and consider additional lawful actions when supported by evidence.
We also ask Congress to conduct appropriate oversight, seek briefings from relevant agencies, and press for a clear explanation of what is being done to protect peace and counter corruption and destabilizing foreign influence.
OUR MESSAGE TO WASHINGTON
WE ARE NOT ASKING FOR EMPTY PROMISES. WE ARE DEMANDING DECISIVE, CONCRETE ACTION.
The United States helped bring an end to the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The peace secured at Dayton remains an important U.S. diplomatic achievement and a vital foundation for regional stability.
That commitment must mean more than statements of concern.
We call on U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Senators Josh Hawley, Chuck Grassley, and Jeanne Shaheen, Representative Joe Wilson, and Congressional Caucus Co-Chairs Representatives Michael Turner, Jake Auchincloss, Wesley Bell, and Ann Wagner to use their offices to advance these requests, build bipartisan support, and press the responsible federal agencies for action.
We urge these congressional leaders, representing both major political parties, to stand together in defense of Bosnia and Herzegovina's sovereignty, the Dayton Peace Agreement, democratic governance, and the rule of law. We ask them to support appropriate congressional oversight, demand accountability where credible evidence warrants action, and ensure that malign foreign interference and corruption do not undermine peace and stability in the Western Balkans.
We ask the U.S. Treasury and Department of Justice to review credible evidence within their respective authorities and pursue appropriate enforcement or investigative measures wherever warranted.
America's national security and economic interests in the Balkans must not be undermined by malign foreign influence, corruption, or the erosion of the rule of law. Ensuring accountability, protecting American citizens and investments, and defending private property rights are vital to safeguarding U.S. strategic interests and advancing lasting peace and prosperity throughout the Western Balkan region.
Peace without accountability is vulnerable. Sovereignty without protection is at risk. The rule of law must apply to everyone.
We call on American citizens to sign this petition, share it with their communities, and contact their elected representatives.
SIGN. SHARE. SPEAK UP. DEMAND ACCOUNTABILITY.
Let our elected leaders hear one clear message:
DEFEND BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA'S SOVEREIGNTY.
PROTECT THE DAYTON PEACE AGREEMENT.
INVESTIGATE CREDIBLE ALLEGATIONS.
HOLD VIOLATORS ACCOUNTABLE UNDER THE LAW.
Name: __________________________________
City and State: ___________________________
Signature: _______________________________
Date: ___________________________________
234
The Issue
AMERICA MUST ACT FOR BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
A Call to Action: Safeguarding America's National Security and Economic Interests in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Western Balkans
“DEFEND THE PEACE. EXPOSE CORRUPTION. END IMPUNITY. DEMAND ACCOUNTABILITY.
A CALL TO THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS AND THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION
350,000 BOSNIAN AMERICANS. ONE UNITED VOICE. A DEMAND FOR ACTION.
We, the undersigned citizens of the United States, call on our elected representatives and federal law-enforcement agencies to take meaningful, measurable action to protect peace, sovereignty, and democratic governance in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
THE DAYTON PEACE AGREEMENT MUST NOT BE ALLOWED TO ERODE THROUGH IMPUNITY, CORRUPTION, OR - “MALIGN FOREIGN INTERFERENCE AND INFLUENCE
Milorad Dodik's documented confrontations with Bosnia and Herzegovina's state institutions have raised serious concerns about the country's constitutional order and the durability of the peace established at Dayton. The United States has previously imposed sanctions in response to conduct it identified as corrupt or threatening to Bosnia and Herzegovina's stability.
Equally troubling are efforts to use high-profile lobbyists and political connections to secure the removal of U.S. sanctions without meaningful accountability. Published reports suggest that prominent American political figures, lobbyists, and legal representatives involved in efforts associated with the Republika Srpska government’s campaign to lift U.S. sanctions.
On September 25, 2026, the Constitutional Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina reaffirmed a fundamental principle of constitutional governance: taxpayer funds must not be used to undermine the very state and constitutional order they are entrusted to serve. The Court ruled that the use of Republika Srpska’s public budget funds to finance foreign lobbying and campaigns advocating secession violates Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Constitution. The ruling underscores the obligation of public officials to uphold the rule of law, respect the country's sovereignty and constitutional order, and ensure accountability in the use of taxpayers’ money.
These developments raise fundamental questions about whether political influence and paid lobbying are being used to undermine the objectives of U.S. sanctions and weaken accountability for actions that threaten Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and constitutional order.
Sanctions must not become negotiable through political access, financial influence, or backroom arrangements. Any decision to impose, maintain, or lift sanctions must be guided by verifiable conduct, transparent standards, and demonstrable progress toward respecting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s constitutional framework and the Dayton Peace Agreement—not by the influence of powerful individuals or their political connections.
We therefore call on U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the Department of Justice, and members of Congress to examine the lobbying activities undertaken on behalf of Republika Srpska, assess whether all applicable disclosure and legal requirements have been met, and investigate credible allegations of corruption or improper influence where evidence warrants.
The United States must remain steadfast in defending the peace it helped establish. The Dayton Peace Agreement is not a bargaining chip, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty is not for sale, and accountability must never be sacrificed for political convenience.
SIX URGENT PRIORITIES FOR U.S. LEADERSHIP AND ACTION
1. CONGRESS MUST TAKE A CLEAR STAND
We urge Congress to advance a bipartisan resolution condemning actions that threaten Bosnia and Herzegovina's sovereignty, territorial integrity, democratic institutions, or the Dayton Peace Agreement.
Congress must make clear that efforts to undermine the country's constitutional order will not be met with indifference.
2. TREASURY MUST FOLLOW THE MONEY
We call on the U.S. Department of the Treasury to review available evidence concerning Dodik's financial and business networks, potential sanctions evasion, and the use of intermediaries or third-country entities to conceal assets or circumvent restrictions.
Where evidence supports further action, Treasury should use its lawful authorities to investigate, enforce existing sanctions, and consider additional measures.
3. THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE MUST REVIEW CREDIBLE EVIDENCE
We ask the Department of Justice to assess credible allegations of corruption-related financial crimes, money laundering, sanctions violations, and unlawful foreign influence where U.S. jurisdiction applies.
No individual should receive special treatment because of political position, wealth, or international connections. Any investigation must be independent, evidence-based, and consistent with due process.
4. FOREIGN INTERFERENCE MUST BE EXAMINED
We call for scrutiny of credible evidence concerning malign foreign support for activities that may undermine Bosnia and Herzegovina's institutions, circumvent U.S. sanctions, or threaten stability in the Western Balkans.
Malign foreign influence and interference by Russia, China, and Iran pose serious challenges to the sovereignty, stability, and democratic institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the wider Western Balkans. These activities raise significant concerns for America's national security, strategic interests, and economic investments in the region. Countering foreign interference, combating corruption, strengthening the rule of law, and ensuring accountability are essential to protecting American interests and preserving lasting peace and regional stability.
The United States must understand whether financial relationships, political coordination, disinformation, or other forms of foreign influence are contributing to instability—and respond where warranted.
5. ETHNIC DIVISION MUST NOT BECOME A POLITICAL WEAPON
We urge U.S. leaders to oppose efforts by any political actor to inflame ethnic tensions, threaten democratic institutions, or weaken the constitutional framework that sustains peace.
This petition does not target any ethnic group or community. It stands for the equal rights, security, dignity, and democratic future of all people in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
6. ACCOUNTABILITY MUST HAVE CONSEQUENCES
We ask the Administration to review the effectiveness of existing sanctions and diplomatic measures, identify enforcement gaps, and consider additional lawful actions when supported by evidence.
We also ask Congress to conduct appropriate oversight, seek briefings from relevant agencies, and press for a clear explanation of what is being done to protect peace and counter corruption and destabilizing foreign influence.
OUR MESSAGE TO WASHINGTON
WE ARE NOT ASKING FOR EMPTY PROMISES. WE ARE DEMANDING DECISIVE, CONCRETE ACTION.
The United States helped bring an end to the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The peace secured at Dayton remains an important U.S. diplomatic achievement and a vital foundation for regional stability.
That commitment must mean more than statements of concern.
We call on U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Senators Josh Hawley, Chuck Grassley, and Jeanne Shaheen, Representative Joe Wilson, and Congressional Caucus Co-Chairs Representatives Michael Turner, Jake Auchincloss, Wesley Bell, and Ann Wagner to use their offices to advance these requests, build bipartisan support, and press the responsible federal agencies for action.
We urge these congressional leaders, representing both major political parties, to stand together in defense of Bosnia and Herzegovina's sovereignty, the Dayton Peace Agreement, democratic governance, and the rule of law. We ask them to support appropriate congressional oversight, demand accountability where credible evidence warrants action, and ensure that malign foreign interference and corruption do not undermine peace and stability in the Western Balkans.
We ask the U.S. Treasury and Department of Justice to review credible evidence within their respective authorities and pursue appropriate enforcement or investigative measures wherever warranted.
America's national security and economic interests in the Balkans must not be undermined by malign foreign influence, corruption, or the erosion of the rule of law. Ensuring accountability, protecting American citizens and investments, and defending private property rights are vital to safeguarding U.S. strategic interests and advancing lasting peace and prosperity throughout the Western Balkan region.
Peace without accountability is vulnerable. Sovereignty without protection is at risk. The rule of law must apply to everyone.
We call on American citizens to sign this petition, share it with their communities, and contact their elected representatives.
SIGN. SHARE. SPEAK UP. DEMAND ACCOUNTABILITY.
Let our elected leaders hear one clear message:
DEFEND BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA'S SOVEREIGNTY.
PROTECT THE DAYTON PEACE AGREEMENT.
INVESTIGATE CREDIBLE ALLEGATIONS.
HOLD VIOLATORS ACCOUNTABLE UNDER THE LAW.
Name: __________________________________
City and State: ___________________________
Signature: _______________________________
Date: ___________________________________
Petition Updates
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Petition created on October 14, 2026