Differences Relating to Interpretation of Annex 10 of the Dayton Peace Agreement between the Office of the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina and Republika Srpska

In light of the appointment of the incumbent High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina and his recent decisions, differences between the Office of the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina and Republika Srpska have emerged regarding the appointment procedure of the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina, and his powers under Annex 10 to the Dayton Peace Agreement. The first legal issue centres on whether the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina requires endorsement by the UN Security Council to be considered valid. The second legal issue involves determining the scope of the High Representative’s powers. The implications of these differences can- not be understated, since they represent a threat to peace and security in the region. A possible solution of this situation might be in referring both legal issues to the International Court of Justice.

Key words: Dayton Peace Agreement, the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina, Republika Srpska, appointment, powers, UN.