Disappointed hopes
The coalition government, which raised high expectations after the elections, has also failed to deliver tangible results in 2024. EU candidate status, granted in 2022, has so far remained a symbolic policy. Progress towards integration is barely visible, and frustration with the dysfunctional political system continues to grow. High unemployment and a lack of prospects continue to drive many young people to emigrate.
A cry of alarm: gender-based violence in the spotlight
The Gradacac femicide in August 2023, in which a woman was brutally murdered on camera, was a moment of shock for the country. The act sparked nationwide protests and brought the issue of gender-based violence to the forefront of political debate. Nevertheless, implementation of the Istanbul Convention remains insufficient in 2024: access to free legal assistance, effective prosecution and adequate protection for survivors remains deficient.
Funding for women's shelters remains precarious; another had to close in early 2024. Civil society organizations are urgently calling for
Political decision-makers are under increasing pressure to implement comprehensive strategies to combat gender-based violence and prevent these crimes from happening in the first place.
Bosnia-Herzegovina, a transit country for migrants*.
The last non-EU country on the Balkan route, Bosnia-Herzegovina remains an important transit country for thousands of people seeking refuge in the European Union. The humanitarian situation remains tense: the government's response to continuing migration is insufficient, while humanitarian organizations are trying to fill the gaps. Many migrants* live in precarious conditions and are often exposed to repression.
Women and civil society as drivers of peace
Despite political stagnation and ethnic fragmentation, solidarity remains palpable in post-war communities. Women's organizations play a central role in this context: they lead grassroots initiatives, encourage inter-ethnic dialogue and are committed to peace and reconciliation.
The tireless work of these organizations shows that the common desire for a better future can be stronger than ethnic boundaries. They hold society together despite political upheavals, and give hope for lasting social change.
Outlook 2024: stagnation or pressure for reform?
In 2024, Bosnia and Herzegovina finds itself at a crossroads: persistent political stagnation, insufficient efforts to combat gender-based violence and social challenges characterize the country. At the same time, civil society - particularly women's organizations - is demonstrating remarkable resilience and commitment to positive change.
The country's future depends on political actors taking the pressure for reform seriously, overcoming the crisis of confidence and implementing urgent social and political reforms. Inclusive dialogue, the protection of disadvantaged groups and the fight against structural violence are essential to lay the foundations for a fairer, more stable society.
Key figures
Area: 51,197 km2
Capital: Sarajevo / 346,000 citizens
Population: 3.807 million
Population growth: –0.23% per annum
Urban population: 50,3%
Infant mortality: 5.1 per 1,000 live births
Maternal mortality: 6 per 100,000 births
Fertility rate: 1.37 births per woman
Life expectancy: 78 years
Source: CIA World Factbook (2023)
