The diaspora of Bosnia and Herzegovina plays an irreplaceable role in maintaining the domestic economy. Every year, billions of marks arrive in the country via bank transfers or cash, often to help relatives and friends, reports Večernji list.
According to data, in 2022 more than 3.3 billion marks were paid into accounts in BiH, while additional billions arrive for holidays, vacations and other special occasions.
“That money is extremely important because it enables people with weaker financial conditions to survive. They spend it on goods and services, which directly helps the domestic GDP,” pointed out Professor Željko Šain.
He added that this influx of money acts as a shock absorber for social events, preventing social unrest.
Germany and the New Population Exodus
In recent decades, Bosnia and Herzegovina has been faced with a continuous population outflow. It is estimated that more than half a million people have left the country in the last 10 years.
Although it often seems that there is no one left to leave, the scenes of queues in front of the German Embassy in Sarajevo say otherwise.
Germany recently started recognizing driver’s licenses from BiH, which further encouraged the exodus, especially of drivers.
“The apartment and utilities are more expensive, but the extra work solves those costs. I can still live solidly by sending money to my family, which is the most important thing,” said one returnee on annual vacation.
Statistics: Second Largest Diaspora in the World
According to Forbes statistics, BiH has the second largest diaspora in the world.
The UN report “World Population Prospects” states that BiH is losing 1.5% of its population annually, while more than 60% of qualified people have left the country in the last 20 years.
“Cooperation with the diaspora must be improved, and their help must not only be monetary. Concrete investments are needed that will ensure the development of the country,” emphasized Edina Selešković, artist and head of the Diaspora Class at the International Academy of Sciences and Arts in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Need for Joint Activities
It is critical to establish an institutional approach to cooperation with the diaspora.
“Lack of organization and data about people out there is holding back progress. “Individual initiatives are useful, but they must be connected and networked in order to have a greater effect,” Selesković said.
Without systemic changes, Bosnia and Herzegovina will continue to lose population, while money from the diaspora will only ensure survival from month to month.
The question is how much money there will be in the future, as entire families leave the country, leaving the question “who else to send money to?”
The time for concrete measures and solutions is running out.
Bosnia and Herzegovina must turn to the diaspora not only as a financial support, but also as a partner in building a better future.
