Determinants of demographic development of the Republic of Srpska at the beginning of the 21th century

Abstract

For decades now, the Republic of Srpska has been affected by the natural depopulation process and starting with 2002 it has been manifested through negative rate of natural increase resulting from natality decrease and mortality increase. During the target period, the number of the live-born declined by 28% whereas the number of the dead increased by 25%. Clearly, negative demographic figures along with negative migrations resulted in the total depopulation. Negative migration balance additionally complicates negative demographic trend, which results in total depopulation of large proportions. Major issue of the Republic of Srpska population is the phenomenon of low fertility resulting from a whole range of negative factors. Therefore, the implementation of population policy measures is fundamental for both society and population in the country.