Bosnia and Herzegovina

Abstract

Following the war fought over ethno-religious lines and symbols, the society of Bosnia and Herzegovina had to reconceptualise the relationship between the state and its different religious communities. It also had to face the challenge of governing religious diversity based on the principle of equality and freedom from state interference in religious matters. Present-day Bosnia and Herzegovina promotes a model of separation of state and religion including the principles of religious freedom and equality of all religious communities. In guarding the multi-confessional character of the state, religious communities are prohibited from disseminating hatred against other religious communities. In the context of the country’s plural religious scene and divided society, the implementation of the principles of equality of religious communities has not always been easy or straightforward. This chapter analyses the history, structure, and institutional framework of religious diversity governance in Bosnia and Herzegovina, touching on current tensions and risks.