European Union Force Bosnia and Herzegovina

01 Apr

Question

The session focused on the UK's contributions to the European Union Force (EUFOR) in Bosnia and Herzegovina and broader regional security initiatives. The discussion was framed around criticisms of the UK's withdrawal from Operation Althea in 2020 and suggestions for future involvement.

Outcome

The debate surfaced a commitment to continued engagement via NATO and bilateral efforts, alongside potential exploration of enhanced cooperation with the EU.

Key Contributions

James MacCleary

Liberal Democrats

Questioned the effectiveness of UK's support to EUFOR post-withdrawal.

Stephen Doughty

Highlighted regular UK engagement with EUFOR and EU delegation in Bosnia.

Original Transcript

James MacCleary

Lewes

Question

UIN: 903537

4. What assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the UK’s contribution to the European Union Force Bosnia and Herzegovina.

James MacCleary

11:42

I thank the Minister for his answer. He will be aware that the Conservative Government previously withdrew from the EUFOR peacekeeping force—Operation Althea—in 2020, following their botched Brexit deal, letting our allies down.

Will the Minister consider recommitting British troops to Operation Althea, as other third countries have, such as Turkey, to show our European allies that we want to work together and to demonstrate our continued focus on the region?

Stephen Doughty

I think the hon. Member heard what I said a moment ago. We regularly engage with EUFOR and the EU delegation in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Indeed, I co-convened a call with Quint members and EU institutions on Friday with my French counterpart, and we are working closely on these very serious matters.

We are also supporting security in Bosnia through our bilateral contributions, including our staff officers in the NATO HQ in Sarajevo.

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