The rank is equivalent to the one of a prefect (French: Préfet) and its powers are governed by Organic Law 2004–192.
He enacts local laws (known as Lois du Pays) with the countersignature of the President of French Polynesia and ensures their publication in the Journal Officiel de la Polynésie française.
The overseas minor territory of Clipperton Island falls also under the jurisdiction of the High Commissioner since it is uninhabited and has no local administration.
[2] The official residence and the office of the High Commissioner are housed at the Haut-Commissariat in Papeete.
The state representative was titled Governor until 13 July 1977 when the final name of High Commissioner of the Republic was adopted.