the first brčko international supervisor arrived in april 1997. prior to that time, the organization for security and co-operation in europe (osce) had a modest office headed by randolph hampton. during the interim time before the district of brčko could be represented post arbitration agreement, local elections were held, and humanitarian relief was provided with cooperation from the united states agency for international development (usaid) and echo. the district became known as a center for different state-building programs run by foreign governments, particularly the united states.