Whither the National Identity in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Abstract

This paper deals with the public perceptions of the national identity in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which has been in flux throughout history. Hence, the common national identity was replaced by exclusive ethnic national identities and ideologies of Bosnians, Serbs, and Croats. In particular, the post-war period, marked by unrest and ethnic tension as well as the socio-political and economic challenges, contributed to exclusive ethnic national identification. The research examined the level and importance of national identity to Bosnians, Serbs and Croats and the way they express their national identity through loyalty to the country and national identity markers while recognizing current socio-political and economic challenges. The research indicated that the main ethnic groups maintain their radical and exclusive ethnic national identities, which significantly affected state functioning, stability, security and prosperity of the country. Therefore, the Bosnian society should put emphasis on diversity, dialogue and trust, whereby exclusive ethnic national identities of Bosnians, Serbs and Croats are countered and balanced by civic, nation-state and institution-based identity models.