The war in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) between 1992 and 1995 displaced 2.2 million people, leading to population emigration due to dissatisfaction with the economic standard and socio-political system. The second largest diaspora in the world is from BiH, contributing over 14% to the GDP and operating from abroad. These individuals leave BiH in search of safer living conditions and employment opportunities.
The Union for Sustainable Return and Integrations in BiH has initiated a project called „Civil Society in the Fight against Corruption,” funded by the Center for Civil Initiatives (CCI). However, there are objections to the existing law, such as the lack of a single database on total government funds allocated to local communities and the selection of beneficiaries based on party commitment and vote buying.
The existential problems faced by returnees and displaced persons include employment rights, education, and security challenges. The reasons for emigration for BiH citizens to EU countries include earnings and the need to live in a safe environment. A UNFPA study found that 47% of young people in BiH were considering leaving the country, with 23% wanting to leave temporarily and 24% wanting to leave permanently. Young people face unsatisfactory living standards, lack trust in public institutions, and believe authorities care about their interests.
The decision to migrate is influenced by various economic, structural, psychological, and educational factors, as well as their social background. If these trends continue, over 8,000 teaching staff may become redundant, leading to increased costs and a need for more funding for development.