Bosnia votes as wartime divides drive campaigns

Sarajevo, Bosnia is set to vote in general elections on Sunday, following years of political turmoil and stalled reforms, amid campaigns centered on ethnic divisions from its 1990s war. The complex voting system encompasses multiple government tiers and will decide officials across various levels. The primary race is for the tripartite presidency, contested between Bosniak Muslims and the Serb and Croat ethnic groups, with candidates advocating for either a unified country or increased autonomy for the Serb-run entity while Croats seek more political representation.

However, many voters find the parties' repeated reliance on war-era rhetoric and division frustrating. The Dayton Agreement from 1995 ended the 1992-1995 conflict but perpetuated divisions, leading to a weak central government and two semi-autonomous entities – the Serb-run Republika Srpska (RS) and a Muslim-Croat federation – linked by a weak central government.

Despite being ineligible due to power abuse, former RS President Milorad Dodik remains a dominant figure and a key race feature. Analysts believe opposition candidate Branko Blanusa might challenge Dodik in the RS presidency race. The upcoming use of biometric identification and paper ballot scanning at polling stations could influence the outcome.

In the Muslim-Croat federation, Bosniak parties are advocating for a stronger central state, with incumbent presidency member Denis Becirovic promising a renewed path to the European Union and Nato. However, little progress has been made in recent years on reforms or EU/Nato alignment. Croat nationalist parties are also seeking electoral reform to have more influence in choosing the Croat presidency member.

Young environmental activist Sara Tusevljak laments the political deadlock and its impact on young Bosnians, many of whom feel compelled to leave the country due to the lack of opportunities and state support. The voting period begins at 7 am local time and ends 12 hours later.