Woman laws at Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) has a legal framework aimed at promoting gender equality and protecting women's rights. Here's an overview of key laws and policies affecting women in BiH:
⚖️ Legal Framework for Gender Equality
Law on Gender Equality (2003, amended 2009): This law prohibits gender-based discrimination and mandates equal representation in political, economic, social, and educational spheres. It guarantees equal opportunities to all citizens in both public and private life.
Family Law: The Family Law of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republika Srpska provides for equal rights in marriage, divorce, and inheritance. Women have the same rights as men to obtain a divorce, remarry, and inherit assets.
👩👧 Family and Child Rights
Parental Leave Mothers are entitled to paid maternity leave of at least 14 weeks, with benefits typically covering 100% of their salary. Fathers are also entitled to paid paternity leav
Child Custody In divorce proceedings, both parents have equal rights to custody of their children, with decisions made based on the child's best interest
🛡️ Protection Against Gender-Based Violence
*Domestic Violence Laws: Both the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republika Srpska have laws addressing domestic violence. These laws provide for protective measures, including restraining orders, and penalties for perpetratos.
*Recent Developments: In February 2025, the Federation Parliament adopted a new Law on Protection Against Domestic Violence and Violence Against Women, aligning with the Council of Europe's Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence (Istanbul Conventio)
💼 Employment and Economic Rights
*Equal Pay: The Law on Gender Equality mandates equal remuneration for work of equal vaue.
*Property Rights: Women have equal rights to own property, sign contracts, and access credit. Inheritance laws ensure that sons and daughters have equal rights to inherit assets from their parets.
🗳️ Political Participation
Representatio: The Law on Gender Equality mandates that at least 30% of candidates in elections must be women. However, women remain underrepresented in political decision-making positons.
⚠️ Challenges and Gaps
Implementation Issue: Despite progressive legislation, the implementation of gender equality laws is inconsistent. Discrimination persists in various sectors, and women often face barriers in accessing justice and support servces.
Cultural Norm: eep-rooted cultural norms and societal attitudes continue to affect women's rights and opportunities inBiH.
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While Bosnia and Herzegovina has established a legal framework to promote gender equality, ongoing efforts are needed to address implementation challenges and cultural barriers to ensure that women can fully exercise their rihts.
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