House of representatives

House of Representatives

The House of Representatives is convened for the first time not later than 20 days after the election results are published. The Speaker of the previous convocation convenes the first session and chairs the session pending the election of the new Speaker of the House of Representatives. 

If the Speaker of the previous convocation is not in a position to convene the session of the House of Representatives, the session is convened by the eldest member within the new composition of the House of Representatives.

The House of Representatives consists of 98 members, elected democratically in elections, by secret ballot, on the territory of the entire Federation, in line with the Constitution of the Federation and the Election Law of Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

The term of office in the House of Representatives is four years- unless the House of Representatives is disbanded under the Constitution of the Federation.

The House of Representatives has its Speaker and two Deputy Speakers. The Speaker of the House of Representatives and two Deputy Speakers of the House of Representatives are elected from among the Members of the House at the session of the House of Representatives following the verification of mandates of the Members in the House of Representatives. 

The proposal for the election of the Speaker of the House of Representatives and two Deputy Speakers of the House of Representatives is submitted by the MP Caucuses.

The House of Representatives has a secretary, who is appointed in accordance with the law.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives and two Deputy Speakers shall not come from the same constituent peoples of the group of Others.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives shall: 

• Represent the House of Representatives; 
• Take part in the preparation of, convenes, and chairs sessions of the House of Representatives;  
• Take part in the preparation of, convenes, and chairs sessions of the Collegium of the House of Representatives; 
• Initiate debate on issues within the competence of the House of Representatives at its sessions; 
• Agree with the Speaker of the House of Peoples the method and deadlines for deliberation of the decisions which require confirmation by both Houses; 
• Ensure that the Working Program of the House of Representatives is implemented and informs the House of Representatives about it; 
• Ensure implementation of these Rules of Procedures; 
• Ensure that the principle of transparency is applied to the work of the House Representatives and the committees of the House of Representatives; 
• Ensure that the rights and duties of the Members of the House of Representatives related to their office within the competence of the House of Representatives are implemented; 
• Manage relations and co-operation between the House of Representatives and other authorities of the Federation; 
• Sign acts passed by the House of Representatives; and 
• Give instructions to the Secretary of the House of Representatives relating to the execution of his/her tasks and duties.