Republika Srpska hires lobbying firm claiming Saudi and Israeli backing for independence
A lobbying firm hired by Republika Srpska says Saudi Arabia and Israel have expressed interest in the entity’s independence from Bosnia and Herzegovina, prompting a Bosnian constitutional court ban on related payments.
The Montreal-based lobbying house Dickens & Madson Canada Inc., led by Ari Ben-Menashe, submitted semi-annual FARA filings describing its work for Republika Srpska, whose goal is independence from Bosnia and Herzegovina. The filings assert that the firm held meetings with the Office of the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia and the Office of the President of Israel, suggesting both governments have an interest in RS secession.
The firm also indicated that these governments might raise the issue with U.S. authorities, though no confirmation of such discussions exists. After the contract was signed on September 6, 2025, Bosnia’s Constitutional Court convened its 174th plenary session and ruled that any RS budget payments for the lobbying contract violate the BiH constitution, ordering a suspension of related activities. The court’s decision also bars similar lobbying efforts that conflict with BiH constitutional provisions.
Why it matters
The case highlights foreign influence attempts on Balkan separatist movements and a constitutional clampdown on illicit lobbying.
How this story developed
- Sep 30 Bosnia's gender quota law masks limited female leadership in election lists
- Oct 4 The proportion of female‑headed party lists fell by 6.1 points compared with the 2022 election.
- Oct 4 Voting began with roughly 3.4 million eligible voters casting ballots.
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