For three decades, the Republic of Srpska has consistently demonstrated its unwavering commitment to upholding international law, The General Framework Agreement for Peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina/the Dayton Peace Agreement, and all its annexes, with the goal of preserving and fostering peace and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as in the broader region.
As a contracting party and signatory of this international peace agreement and all its annexes, which was verified by United Nations Security Council Resolution 1031, the Republic of Srpska not only acknowledges its obligations but also exercises its right to protect its constitutional competencies, as well as the rights of the Serbian constituent people and all its citizens guaranteed by the Agreement.
The principle of pacta sunt servanda (“agreements must be kept”) represents the foundation of international law. According to Article 26 of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, every valid treaty is binding upon the parties and must be executed in good faith. This includes:
- The prohibition of unilateral modifications without the consent of the contracting parties.
- Respecting the original text of the treaty, including all annexes.
- The obligation of all actors, domestic and international, to act in accordance with the agreed terms.
Violating this principle, such as through unilateral interventions or the imposition of decisions contrary to the Agreement, constitutes a direct breach of international law.
If the protection of these rights, as guaranteed by this international peace agreement, its annexes, and UN Security Council Resolution 1031, is not ensured through mechanisms at the level of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Republic of Srpska retains its legitimate right, in accordance with international law, to undertake appropriate legal and political measures. Such measures would be taken solely to safeguard the fundamental rights of the Serbian constituent people and its citizens, as well as to ensure the stability of its territory and the continued peace in the region.
The Republic of Srpska remains steadfast in its dedication to upholding the principles of the Dayton Peace Agreement and its essential role in ensuring a peaceful and stable future for all.
