Bosnian War
 · 3 min read
 · Tom Thanks
Table of contents

The Lasting Impact of Ethnic Division from the Bosnian War on Contemporary Politics in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Introduction

The Bosnian War, fought between 1992 and 1995, resulted in significant ethnic divisions among the three main groups: Bosniaks, Croats, and Serbs. These divisions have led to a unique political structure in Bosnia and Herzegovina that not only reflects ethnic identities but also complicates governance, stability, and social cohesion. Understanding how these historical divisions influence current political structures is essential for grasping the complexity of the country’s ongoing struggle for unity and progress.

Details

  • Ethnic Federalism Established by the Dayton Agreement

      • The Dayton Peace Accords of 1995 officially ended the war and created a complex federal structure.
      • Bosnia and Herzegovina was divided into two entities: the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (predominantly Bosniak and Croat) and the Republika Srpska (predominantly Serb).

  • Power-Sharing Arrangements

      • A tripartite presidency was established, which necessitates representation from all three major ethnic groups.
      • This setup often leads to political stalemate, as cooperation between groups can be difficult due to entrenched ethnic loyalties.

  • Ethnic Political Parties Dominance

      • Political parties in Bosnia are heavily aligned along ethnic lines, such as the Party of Democratic Action (SDA) for Bosniaks, the Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) for Croats, and the Serbian Democratic Party (SDS) for Serbs.
      • This ethnic fragmentation often hinders the development of cross-ethnic political coalitions that could foster broader national interests.

  • Constitutional Constraints and Discriminatory Practices

      • The Constitution of Bosnia and Herzegovina, part of the Dayton Agreement, enshrines ethnic quotas which perpetuate ethnic divisions.
      • Non-ethnic groups and minorities often face exclusion from key political positions and cannot run for certain offices reserved for the “constituent peoples.”

  • Impact on National Identity and Social Cohesion

      • The focus on ethnic identity over a unified national identity has led to pervasive mistrust among communities.
      • Educational systems often reinforce ethnic separation, contributing to ongoing societal divisions and reducing opportunities for dialogue and reconciliation.

  • International Influence and Intervention

      • International bodies, such as the EU and NATO, have been involved in promoting peace and stability, yet their effectiveness is often limited by the entrenched ethnic divisions.
      • External influences like foreign investments and political pressure can inadvertently exacerbate existing tensions, as different ethnic groups vie for support from external powers.

  • Challenges to Governance and Reform

      • The ethnic-based political system complicates necessary reforms in governance, such as tackling corruption and improving economic conditions.
      • Often, political leaders prioritize ethnic interests over national agendas, hindering progress on key issues impacting all citizens.

  • Emerging Civil Society Movements

      • While ethnic divisions remain dominant, there is a growing movement towards more inclusive politics among younger generations.
      • Civic initiatives are beginning to foster dialogue across ethnic lines, pushing for reforms that prioritize shared interests rather than ethnic ones.

Conclusion

The ethnic divisions resulting from the Bosnian War have had a profound and lasting influence on the political structures and dynamics within Bosnia and Herzegovina. The complexities introduced by the Dayton Agreement, together with ethnic political party dominance and systemic discrimination, continue to affect governance, social cohesion, and national identity. While these divisions pose significant challenges, emerging civil society movements may herald a gradual shift towards a more inclusive political landscape. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for anyone interested in the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina.