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BiH Atlas
Government · institutionUred visokog predstavnika

Office of the High Representative (OHR)

An ad hoc international institution responsible for overseeing the civilian implementation of the Dayton Peace Agreement. Created in 1995 under Annex 10.

Composition

  • •The High Representative (appointed by the Peace Implementation Council (PIC) and approved by the UN Security Council)
  • •Supported by international and local staff of diplomats, legal experts, and administrative officers

Powers

  • •Vested with "Bonn Powers" (enacted in 1997) to issue binding, temporary legislation when local institutions are deadlocked.
  • •Power to dismiss public officials, including presidents and members of parliament, who obstruct peace implementation.
  • •Final authority in theatre regarding interpretation of the civilian implementation of the peace agreement.

How members are chosen

Appointed by the Peace Implementation Council (PIC) Steering Board and endorsed by the UN Security Council.

Veto and blocking mechanics
Decisions are final and binding; they cannot be vetoed by domestic Bosnian institutions, though they are subject to intense political negotiation.
Sources and verification