Christian Schmidt, the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina, recently shared his pearls of wisdom at a forum in Königswinter, Germany. The event, hosted by the Deutsche Atlantische Gesellschaft, revolved around the implications of Donald Trump’s second presidency for Europe. But instead of offering nuanced insights, Schmidt delivered a performance that left one wondering if his role is to oversee Bosnia or to channel Angela Merkel’s unresolved political nostalgia.
Merkel’s Man in Bosnia
Schmidt began his talk by reminding everyone that his appointment wasn’t exactly the result of the Dayton Agreement or a legitimate consensus. Oh no, it was Angela Merkel’s “brilliant” idea—a parting gift to the Balkans from a Chancellor who apparently felt Schmidt’s talents were too precious to waste. Merkel, as Schmidt pointed out, trusted him with the “specifics of the task.” One can only imagine how deeply disappointed Schmidt is that this isn’t immortalized in her memoirs.
A Harris Fan in Königswinter
Schmidt didn’t hold back his feelings about the U.S. election. He declared Trump’s win unfortunate, lamenting that Kamala Harris wasn’t the victor. Why? Because, according to him, Trump treats Germany and Europe like economic rivals rather than cherished allies. Schmidt forecasted doom for German industries, expecting higher tariffs on cars and other exports. One could almost hear the violins playing in the background as Schmidt painted a picture of a Trump-induced economic apocalypse.
The Balkan Tour of Oblivion
When asked by Nedim Makarević, Bosnia’s long-serving ambassador to various countries, about the potential impact of Trump’s presidency on Bosnia, Schmidt brushed it off with a classic “nothing much will change” shrug.
He did, however, dive into his usual repertoire of vague references, including the infamous Sejdić-Finci ruling. According to Schmidt, this issue “must be resolved,” and he assured everyone that he’s committed to giving it his “full contribution.” Exactly what that contribution entails remains a mystery, much like Schmidt’s broader strategy for Bosnia.
He also briefly touched on the issue of Croatia’s representation in Bosnia’s tripartite presidency, only to sidestep the messy details, noting “two differing perspectives.”
Russia Everywhere, Arabs Nowhere
Schmidt couldn’t resist his favorite talking point: Russia. The Kremlin’s influence, he warned, looms large over Serbia and Republika Srpska. As for the Arabs? Nothing to worry about. According to Schmidt, their influence in Bosnia is mostly benign and limited to tourism and small investments. That’s right—no “targeted Arab agenda” to see here, folks.
Donald, Please Do the Balkans a Favor
Here’s the bottom line: Schmidt’s appointment wasn’t born out of the Dayton Agreement or local consensus—it was Merkel’s parting indulgence. His role, ostensibly to oversee Bosnia’s fragile political landscape, has instead become a stage for out-of-touch commentary and half-baked observations.
Donald Trump, if you truly want to make waves in the Balkans, start by showing Schmidt the door. Bosnia needs a representative who understands its complexities, not someone who uses the position as a retirement hobby.