BCSDN condemns the adoption of the “Foreign Agents Law” in the National Assembly of Republika Srpska, which forces non-profits receiving foreign funding to register as “foreign agents,” restricting their activities and undermining independent civil society. Passed without meaningful debate despite widespread opposition, the law expands government control over CSOs, intensifying repression alongside restrictive defamation laws. It forces organizations to choose between self-censorship or severe legal and financial consequences, stifling activism in Republika Srpska and sending a chilling message across BiH and the region. Similar laws in other countries have led to broader restrictions on businesses, foreign investors, diaspora, and international NGOs, raising concerns about long-term effects. BCSDN urges the Council of Peoples to block the law and calls on the EU, Council of Europe, OSCE, and UN bodies to take action. CoE Commissioner for Human Rights has also called for its repeal, warning it threatens freedom of association and expression.
Source: BCSDN/ CoE