Volu m e I - Purdue University Calumet

Most Opdna – a typical Bosniak stronghold. This is an encouraging example of Bosnians being willing to cross
ethnic and corresponding political lines for the overall good of their country. A second glimpse of hope lies in
the plurality of the election results. Given this, parties will need to be diligent about forming efficient
inter-party coalitions.
The election results point to several foreign policy issues for the United States. While there is an electoral
democracy in play, the ethnic divisions that contributed to the horrors of the war are still evident.
According to a senior official in the OHR, the United States should be concerned with the nationalist
rhetoric surrounding candidates' bids for office as this is likely indicative of old simmering ethnic hostilities.
Secondly, the election results show that people are participating but, for various reasons, not all feel
comfortable voting for a candidate from outside their own ethnicity. This is particularly true for voters of
the Bosniak and Serbian ethnic groups. The United States, with its historical support for free and fair
elections, should examine its potential role in ensuring open, impartial balloting. Lastly, the United States
should be aware of increasing anti-US sentiment among Serb populations, both in Bosnia and Serbia, which
was particularly evident in the pre-election period. Caution should be taken as this may be a threat to the
United States and its interests or may simply be a technique for garnering votes.
Foreign Policy Options
An examination of the above issues leads to proposed policy options. While there are many
courses of action available, this report will suggest foreign policy options relative to the Dayton Peace
Accords, economic relations, partnerships with European organizations, and the lack of Bosnian civil
society.
Foreign Policy Options related to Dayton
As one of the six members of the Peace Implementation Council, the United States has a vital role to
play in seeing that the responsibilities outlined in the Dayton Accords are carried out. However, prior to
outlining specific policy recommendations, several factors must be carefully considered. First, any actions
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