The project "Challenges of the integration of foreigners into the working environment and daily life in the Sarajevo Canton with an insight into the positive practices of the European Union" investigates the problems of the integration of foreign workers in this canton, which faces a growing demand for qualified workers due to the outflow of intelligence and labor force from Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). The European Migration Network predicts that by 2030, Western European countries will need 45 million new qualified and skilled workers to sustain economic growth. Given this perspective, emigration from the Western Balkans, including BiH, is likely to continue unless significant improvements are made in social, political and security conditions.

With many experts and workers leaving the country in search of better opportunities, Sarajevo Canton – and other parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina even more so – is facing a serious shortage of qualified personnel, and foreign workers are becoming a key resource to fill these gaps. Without adequate support, they face numerous obstacles, including the lack of comprehensive integration programs. These challenges are manifested at the social, legal and cultural level. Socially, they find it difficult to establish meaningful connections with local communities, which can lead to feelings of isolation and alienation. Legally, not knowing their way around unfamiliar laws and bureaucratic procedures further complicates their situation, leaving them vulnerable and susceptible to exploitation. Culturally, differences in language, customs and traditions make communication difficult and encourage stereotypes.

In addition, public opinion in BiH remains divided on the issue of foreign workers, especially in light of increased security concerns following the large waves of post-2015 migration. It is important to clarify that this project does not deal with issues related to migration, but instead focuses on foreign nationals – individuals who are citizens of another country, not naturalized citizens of BiH – who are employed in Sarajevo Canton. Nevertheless, the employment of foreign workers in BiH does present certain security challenges, which is why a thorough check by the competent authorities is necessary to ensure national security.

One concern that receives less public attention yet is still significant, is the impact that foreign workers can have on the ethnic and demographic makeup of a country. This is particularly noticeable in smaller nations, where changes in population dynamics are more acutely felt. There is a certain resistance of the population towards the increase in the number of foreign workers, because their presence is perceived as a potential threat to the existing demographic and ethnic balance.

The overarching goal of the project is to encourage a more inclusive and fair society in Sarajevo Canton. Through the targeting of integration programs, foreign workers will receive the necessary support to overcome obstacles and actively participate in social, economic and cultural life. By promoting social cohesion, the project seeks to build bridges between different ethnic and national groups, creating an environment where all individuals feel valued. The absence of integration policies and programs can lead to long-term social security challenges and exacerbate tensions between the local population and foreign workers.

The project will be led by a team from the Center for Balkan Studies (BSC) and the Faculty of Law of the International University in Sarajevo (FLW), led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Hamza Preljević. Along with him, the team consists of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ena Kazić-Çakar, Asst. Prof. Dr. Mirza Ljubović, Asst. Prof. Dr. Kenan Ademović and Assist. Prof. Dr. Hana Šarkinović-Köse. Together, the team will conduct comprehensive research that includes analysis of domestic and EU legal frameworks, examination of successful integration models, and interviews with target groups to identify opportunities and barriers to more efficient integration.

This project is supported by the Ministry of Science, Higher Education and Youth of Sarajevo Canton through a Public Call for co-financing of scientific research, artistic research and research and development projects from the budget of Sarajevo Canton for 2024.