Volu m e I - Purdue University Calumet

construed in a win-win manner for both the small country of Bosnia and America. Finally, government to
government economic aid would also provide an avenue for raising necessary financial capital.
Alternatively, the United States can step back from the direct investment route and assist in the
European Union accession process. In reality, the market for Bosnian goods and services would likely be
found in its European neighbors to the north rather than in the United States. Joining the European Union,
which is a stated goal of the Bosnian government, would result in new markets opening, labor flowing freely,
and Bosnian citizens being the direct beneficiaries of the myriad of economic advantages that come from being
a member of the European community. Evidence of these benefits of EU accession can be found in the recent
histories of Bulgaria and Romania who joined in 2007. Between now and 2020, "Bulgaria and Romania can
expect a sizable overall integration gain, amounting to an additional ½ percentage point real GDP growth per
annum" (Breuss 1). The EU accession process is a long and difficult road. Statements made by senior
diplomats indicate that the process will take years longer than the publically projected five years due to the
complexities of the required economic reforms. In light of this protracted time frame, the United States has a
chance to continue its commitment to Bosnia and support the government in the economic reforms required
for EU membership.
Foreign Policy options regarding Partnerships with European Organizations
Currently, the American diplomatic presence in Bosnia is the largest diplomatic contingent in all of
the Balkans. The United States Embassy and the significant USAID presence represent the majority of the US
commitment to Bosnia. America has been in the country since the end of the war helping with the rebuilding
and stabilization efforts. The question facing policy makers is this: does a large American presence in Bosnia
contribute to progress in the country or does it give the impression that American "propping up” is necessary?
This question should be approached with sensitivity to the fact that reducing the number of diplomats,
reassigning diplomats, or designating Bosnia as a "non-hazardous duty post" could potentially send an
erroneous message of declining American commitment to the rebuilding of the country.
187