Bosnia and Herzegovina faces significant demographic decline

Bosnia and Herzegovina is facing a significant demographic crisis, characterized by a widening gap between birth and death rates. According to data from the Agency for Statistics of Bosnia and Herzegovina, during the first six months of the year, 11,604 live births were recorded compared to 17,568 deaths.

In the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina specifically, the number of deaths exceeded births by 2,570 during a seven-month period. While most cantons reported negative natural growth, West Herzegovina Canton was a notable exception, maintaining a positive balance in several months. Sarajevo Canton also recorded a positive natural increase in June.

Experts note that the fertility rate in the country is among the lowest in Europe, estimated at approximately 1.3 children per woman, well below the 2.1 required for replacement-level fertility. This decline, compounded by continuous emigration due to economic, political, and security reasons, is contributing to a shrinking population base and a decreasing number of students in primary schools.