According to the data of the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council, a total of 4,189 reports for the criminal offense of domestic violence were recorded in Bosnia and Herzegovina from 2023 to the middle of 2024.
Of that number, the courts imposed 306 prison sentences and 714 suspended sentences, which confirms that domestic violence is a serious social problem.
Four women, victims of domestic and intimate partner violence, currently live in a safe house in the area of Mostar. During this year, a total of 33 people sought refuge, including children who suffered the consequences of long-term violence.
Dijana Tadić, director of the “Zena BiH” Association, points out:
“They stay here from a few days to half a year. There they get all the adequate help, and after the safe house they can contact our counseling center and we often receive information that the violence is repeated if they return to the abuser. Violence is difficult to eradicate and we must react quickly, coordinated and together.”
During this year, 149 cases of domestic violence were reported to the Cantonal MUP, of which 133 victims were women. But the fact that in 29 cases there was a violation of protective measures is worrying. Mario Marić, Minister of the Interior of the HNK, emphasizes:
“The number of reports and processing has increased, but protective measures are still being violated. Statistics often show only part of the reality, because behind every number there is fear, stigma and long-term silence of victims.”
The institution of the human rights ombudsman in BiH, in cooperation with the UN Population Fund, presented the Special Report on the mechanisms of protection and prevention against domestic violence. The report recommends better coordination of institutions, strengthening the capacity of centers for social work, and continuation of procedures even if the victim withdraws the report.
Nives Jukić, ombudsman for human rights of Bosnia and Herzegovina, warns:
“The procedure should continue until the final decision is made, in order to see other means of evidence. The key is to raise public awareness about the problem of violence.”
Significant progress was recorded in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina with the adoption of the new Law on protection against domestic violence and violence against women, which includes an SOS line available 24 hours a day, more detailed arrangement of safe houses and strengthening of victim protection mechanisms.
An empty chair with the initials of the murdered Aldina Jahić in Mostar reminds of women whose lives were cut short by violence. It is a symbol of silence when institutions are late, but also a reminder that every measure and recommendation must become real protection – on time.
