Bosnia and Herzegovina, currently totally dependent on Russian natural gas imports, has taken a significant step towards energy diversification. On Thursday evening, the House of Representatives of the Croatian-Bosnian entity voted in favor of the construction of a new gas interconnection linking Bosnia to Croatia. This project, long blocked by internal political disputes, could mark a turning point in the energy security of this Balkan country.
For years, the country has relied exclusively on a single interconnection, linking its gas system to that of Serbia, and therefore to Russia. In 2023, Bosnia consumed around 225 million cubic meters of gas, entirely from Russia. This energy monopoly, which weighs on its 3.5 million inhabitants, has given rise to growing concerns, particularly in the context of current geopolitical instability.
A strategic project supported by international players
The new interconnection would allow Bosnia to connect to the liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal located on the Croatian island of Krk, a key diversified supply point for Europe. The plan also has support from foreign powers, including the United States, which have stepped up pressure to advance the legislation. The text must still be adopted by the House of Peoples before entering into force, a process which remains uncertain.
The Krk terminal is seen as a strategic solution to reduce Russian influence on the Balkan energy market. Croatia, although neighboring, already has access to various suppliers through this terminal, which could play a crucial role in supplying the region, including Bosnia.
Persistent internal political blockages
However, the road to this energy diversification remains strewn with pitfalls. The project divides political parties in Bosnia, a country fragmented since the intercommunal war of 1992-1995. In 2021, a similar attempt to pass a law for interconnection failed, mainly due to objections from the leader of the Croatian political party in Bosnia, Dragan Covic. The latter insists that the management of the infrastructure be entrusted to a new company, dominated by Croatian interests, rather than to the public company “BH Gas”, perceived as under Bosnian control.
If similar blockages emerge in the House of Peoples, the decision could be brought before the Constitutional Court, the only one capable of ruling in the event of an impasse.
A step towards energy resilience
Despite these political challenges, the new interconnection represents hope for Bosnia. By reducing its dependence on a single source, this project could improve the country’s energy resilience and mitigate the risks associated with supply disruptions. The move also reflects a broader trend in Europe, where several countries are seeking to diversify their imports to protect themselves from geopolitical pressures.
The finalization of this law and its implementation will determine whether Bosnia can finally turn the page on its energy dependence on Russia, a strategic issue for its sovereignty and economic stability.
