Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina

File:'Jedna si Jedina' - Former national anthem of Bosnia and Herzegovina (1992–1999).ogg

Alija Izetbegovic

Report Card Elementary School (Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina)

Logo of the Army of the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina was a state in Southeast Europe that existed from 1992 to 1995, during the early stages and throughout the duration of the Bosnian War. It was recognized by the international community in April 1992, following the dissolution of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. The Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina was succeeded by the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republika Srpska as part of the Dayton Agreement.

History

The Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina was declared independent following a referendum held in February 1992, which was boycotted by the majority of the Serb population. The independence was recognized by the European Community and the United States in April 1992, leading to the outbreak of the Bosnian War. The war was characterized by the siege of Sarajevo and the Srebrenica massacre, among other atrocities. It involved Bosniaks (Bosnian Muslims), Croats, and Serbs fighting for control over the territory.

Government

The government of the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina was based in Sarajevo and led by President Alija Izetbegović. It was a multi-ethnic government, reflecting the diverse composition of the country's population. The government struggled to maintain sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of aggression from Bosnian Serb forces and the Yugoslav People's Army (JNA), which aimed to create a greater Serbia.

Military

The Army of the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina (ARBiH) was formed in response to the aggression. It was composed mainly of Bosniak volunteers, with smaller numbers of Croats and Serbs. The ARBiH faced significant challenges, including a lack of weapons and training, but it managed to defend key territories and contribute to the eventual peace settlement.

Peace Process

The war ended with the signing of the Dayton Agreement in December 1995. The agreement led to the creation of two entities within Bosnia and Herzegovina: the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, predominantly Bosniak and Croat, and the Republika Srpska, predominantly Serb. The Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina ceased to exist as a separate entity, though Bosnia and Herzegovina continued as a sovereign state within the international community.

Legacy

The Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina played a crucial role in the preservation of the Bosnian state and identity during a tumultuous period. Its existence marked a significant chapter in the history of the Balkans and the broader international efforts to address ethnic conflict and genocide. The legacy of the Republic and the war continues to influence the politics, society, and culture of Bosnia and Herzegovina.