Michael Flynn, a former national security adviser to Donald Trump, is set to host a major economic event in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Serb-majority entity, Republika Srpska, in May.
The “First Annual Economic Summit Europe 2026” will take place in Banja Luka, according to an announcement by the Gold Institute for International Strategy, a think tank led by Flynn. The event is expected to address global economic challenges, although details regarding the program and participants have not yet been disclosed.
Flynn, who served briefly in the Trump administration in 2017, is currently registered as a paid lobbyist for Republika Srpska authorities. According to filings under the U.S. Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), his contract—reportedly worth approximately $100,000 per month—focuses on providing strategic advice and strengthening political ties between Republika Srpska and the United States.
His role includes engaging with decision-makers and influential figures in Washington, as well as promoting the entity’s political positions abroad.
Flynn’s involvement in the region has drawn attention in recent months. During a visit to Banja Luka, remarks he made about Islam—broadcast by local public broadcaster RTRS—sparked controversy across Bosnia and Herzegovina.
His past also remains a subject of scrutiny. Flynn resigned from his White House role in 2017 amid allegations he misled the FBI regarding contacts with the Russian ambassador. He later pleaded guilty, withdrew his plea, and was ultimately pardoned by Trump in 2020.
In a related development, media reports in Bosnia have linked Flynn’s family to energy infrastructure projects in the country. A company associated with his brother, Joseph Flynn, has reportedly been selected as a key concessionaire for the Southern Interconnection gas pipeline, a project aimed at connecting Bosnia to a Croatian LNG terminal and reducing dependence on Russian gas.
Authorities in Republika Srpska have not yet officially commented on the upcoming summit.
