Bosnia and Herzegovina mining sector transition

The mining sector in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina is undergoing a period of modernization and energy transition. In September 2026, the World Bank’s ‘Just Transition in Selected Coal-Rich Regions in BiH’ project became effective, establishing a framework to support RMU Zenica brown coal mine workers. This initiative focuses on systemic solutions, including the payment of outstanding salaries, severance packages, and the protection of legal entitlements for employees.

By October 2026, unpaid wages at the RMU Zenica mine had been settled, allowing the transition project to shift focus toward worker displacement through retraining, re-qualification, and entrepreneurship support. While the transition toward new energy sources continues, the government is also investing in existing infrastructure. For instance, the RMU Banovići mine received a 15 million KM investment for new machinery to increase production and safety. Overall, the Federation Government has allocated 212 million KM to the mining sector, supplemented by 164 million KM in World Bank loans to facilitate the broader energy transition.