Ortlieb, R.; Rahimic, Z.; Hirt, C.; Besic, A. & Bieber, F. (2019). Diversity and equality in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Limits to legislation, public debate and workplace practices. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, online first. (free access)
Abstract:
This article seeks to contribute to knowledge about workplace diversity and equality in an under-researched country. Focusing on the south-eastern European transition economy of Bosnia and Herzegovina, it elaborates on the country’s legislation, public debate and previous research in the field. The article draws on a synopsis of the legislative framework, existing literature, public media and personal communications with human resource practitioners. There is only limited research on diversity and equality in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Ethnicity and gender are the most common grounds for discrimination. Although a solid body of legislation addressing anti-discrimination and equality issues exists, implementation is insufficient. The public debate tends to reinforce inter-ethnic conflicts and a negative atmosphere regarding sexual minority rights. Due to the general lack of research on diversity and equality in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the findings presented in this article only can serve as a first approximation of the topic. Further academic research on concrete business practices and perspectives of human resource managers is needed. Firms not only need to increase compliance with anti-discrimination law, but they should also focus more on the benefits a multi-ethnic society can offer. This is the first article in the management literature that provides comprehensive insight into workplace diversity and equality in Bosnia and Herzegovina.