A new job advertisement in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina has sparked criticism after listing knowledge of the so-called Bosnian, Croatian, and English languages as mandatory requirements, while omitting Serbian.
The case has triggered accusations of discrimination against Serbs and unequal treatment in employment opportunities. Critics argue that excluding one of the three constitutionally recognized languages sends a clear political and social message that Serbs are unwelcome to apply.
Institution of Human Rights Ombudsman of Bosnia and Herzegovina confirmed that a complaint has been received. Ombudsman Jasminka Džumhur stated that the institution is seeking an official explanation and that such conduct may indicate violations of constitutional and legal guarantees of equality.
Legal expert Aleksandar Rupar argued there is no reasonable justification for such a requirement, especially when English was included while Serbian was excluded. He described it as a potentially deliberate omission.
According to critics, the ad may conflict with anti-discrimination provisions that prohibit exclusion based on language. Penalties for legal entities in such cases can reportedly range from 10,000 to 30,000 KM if violations are confirmed.
Sanja Vulić also condemned the case, claiming it reflects a broader pattern of marginalization of Serbs in the Federation.
Whether this specific case reaches court remains unclear, but it has renewed debate over equality, constitutional rights, and the status of all three constituent peoples in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Source: RTRS
