Arrests will open Bosnian Croat-Muslim wounds

Significance

In his first official visit, Krsticevic avoided Sarajevo, the BiH capital, to hold meetings in the Croat-dominated town of Medjugorje. This, as well as his statements urging equality before the law for all Bosnia's ethnic groups, reflected ongoing issues between the two countries. Relations between Croatia and BiH have hit a new low since the arrest of ten Bosnian Croats for war crimes during the 1992-95 war.

Impacts

• The row with Bosnia over war crimes could undermine the new Croatian premier, leaving hardliners in control of his party and government.
• How this issue is decided will determine future political developments in and between the two countries.
• If the Bosnian Croats press on with their own separate entity, it will divide the Federation entity and destabilise BiH.