From Dayton to Brussels : integration of Bosnia and Herzegovina into the European Union

Abstract

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a potential candidate country for EU membership. The Stabilization and Association Agreement (SAA) between Bosnia and the EU was signed in June 2008.Much of today's Bosnia is a product of IC and its decision making. The discussion is concerned with to what extent the EU has achieved to bring Bosnia closer to the EU negotiation table. For the purpose of the thesis, I have chosen two indicators to measure the effect of the integration; Office of the High Representative/EU Specuial Representative and the formal accession agreement between the EU and Bosnia, SAA. Bosnia represents great challenge for the EU.Constitutional elements established by the Dayton Peace Agreement have been frequently challenged by key political leaders and political rhetoric. This has led to a stagnation of the EU related forms. To summarize the findings, one must conclude that when it comes to making an environment which assists EU integration, the EU and the international community has failed to do so, despite the large efforts. The lack of positive results should give an enforced European political engagement. The EU is necessary but not sufficient.Bosnia is a test for the EU just as the EU is a test for Bosnia.