Daniel Joseph Pye • Bosnia & Herzegovina
Standing today is in essence two significantly
decentralised entities that operate almost as if they
were quintessentially two separate countries, spilt
in line with the mandates prescribed by the Dayton
Agreement. The Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
predominately amalgamates the Bosniaks and Croats
whilst Republika Srpska comprises an ethnic Serb
majority.
While most countries have one key leader and one
government party in charge at any one time, both
entities have their own political structure, elections,
constitutions and unique powers. Adding to the layers
of governance and politics are cantons pertaining
uniquely to the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina;
municipalities defining each entity; and multiple official
cities representing different regions in the country with
their own elected mayor and independent city council.
Moreover, the presidency of the entire nation is
administered on a rotational basis between a Bosniak,
a Croat, or a Serb, who serve together for a term of
4 years.
Linguistically, the mutually intelligible languages of
Bosnian, Serbian and Croatian are heard nationwide,
with an interesting dual usage of both the Latin
and Cyrillic scripts. Some knowledge of either is
recommended in traversing the country and engaging
with the locals.
50
March 2015