Demographic development and implementation of population policy measures in the Republic of Srpska

Abstract

Republic of Srpska faces complex demographic problems that are manifested in a constant reduction in birth rates and negative population growth, reducing the number of pupils in primary schools, the process of depopulation, the disappearance of the villages, aging population, emigration of fertile and working-age population abroad. The components of natural movement of population in the period from 1996 to 2008 indicate problems in demographic development. The current rate of natural increase is negative and points to the disruption of vital structures of population with a range of negative consequences. At the level of the Republic of Srpska, family planning and social policy are under the strong influence of changes that occur in society. From the analysis of demographic determinants for the last ten years it is evident that in the Republic of Srpska, for a longer time, there has been active demographic recession initiated by an intensive reduction of fertility rates. In order to increase the fertility a broader social action is needed from which there should arise strategy for demographic development and family planning program that should take into account the number of children required for the replacement of generations. In accordance with the previous, it is needed to intensify activities on systematization of existing measures of population policy and to direct them primarily in pro-natal purposes, in order to distinguish measures of population and social policy. These activities should be developed at all levels, especially at the level of local government. .