The educated majority tries to resist these appeals, but so many Bosnians have been so badly hurt that now fear and anger rival reason and deliberation as key political determinants. The stakes are high for everyone. This part of the world is where major religions and ancient cultures converge. Or it can be the place where reconciliation gains rebirth. But it can and must survive as the loose tri-partite federation Dayton decreed.
War is the only alternative.
The great nations that brokered Dayton sought to indemnify Bosnian supporters of peace by promising the infusion of troops and arms sufficient to maintain a balance of power and funds sufficient to begin the massive process of reconstruction. Those who are here are doing their best. Last week I met with John Yarwood in Mostar, Director of Reconstruction for the European Union. Luckily, Sarajevo will be connected to the Internet next month, which will facilitate our ability to help. In truth, Bosnia needs much of everything.