50 years of Diplomacy 20 years in the Balkans, lessons learned
College of Public Policy

The College of Public Policy (CPP) is delighted to welcome H.E. Ambassador Valentin Inzko as a guest speaker to shed light on the array of unanswered questions and looming conflicts in the Balkans region, particularly in the former Republic of Yugoslavia, which remains a contemporary hotspot in the international system. Ambassador Inzko is an Austrian diplomat who served as the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina from March 2009 to August 2021.

As the High Representative, Ambassador Inzko was responsible for overseeing the implementation of the civilian aspects of the Dayton Peace Agreement, which ended the Bosnian War in 1995. He encountered numerous challenges during his tenure, including political instability, corruption, and the slow pace of reforms. Additionally, he had to navigate tensions between the country's three main ethnic groups - Bosniaks, Croats, and Serbs - and was involved in efforts to promote reconciliation and build bridges between them.

Ambassador Inzko was a driving force behind the establishment of the Regional Cooperation Council, which aimed to promote cooperation between the countries of the Western Balkans. He also played a critical role in the creation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which was established to address the legacy of the war and promote reconciliation. In August 2021, he resigned from his post, citing political pressure and a lack of support from the international community. His departure was seen as a setback for Bosnia and Herzegovina's efforts to overcome its post-war challenges and move towards European integration.

We are honored to have Ambassador Inzko share his unique expertise and deep practice insights with the College and the general interested public.
 

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