Flags, fines, and friction, the symbolic struggles in Bosnia
07 December 2024
Flags carry deep meaning, particularly in the Balkans, where they often transcend mere symbolism to stir emotions, provoke conflicts, and, at times, incite controversy. Bosnia and Herzegovina's recent Statehood Day offered yet another reminder of this power, as a flag from the past sparked a dispute in the heart of Banja Luka.
The flag in question bore the fleur-de-lis, a symbol of Bosnia's independence and the country's official banner until 1998. Its display in the center of Banja Luka last week by three young women turned into an unexpected legal incident. While enjoying their day off, the group hoisted the historic flag, only to face fines from local authorities.
Authorities in Republika Srpska, the Serb-majority entity within Bosnia and Herzegovina, accused the women of violating public order and peace. According to police, raising the flag allegedly caused "disturbance among citizens." Though the fleur-de-lis flag is not officially banned anywhere in Bosnia, it remains a contentious emblem.
To many Bosnian Serbs, the flag is seen as a "war flag," representing only Bosniaks (Bosnian Muslims), particularly during the conflict that preceded the Dayton Agreement. While it is not illegal to display the flag, doing so in Republika Srpska often carries the risk of fines, with authorities citing offenses like disturbing public order, inciting national intolerance, or offending ethnic sentiments.
The reaction to flags in Bosnia reflects a broader reality in the Balkans: their acceptance often depends on the demographic makeup of the region. Flags symbolise identity and unity for one group, but can provoke discomfort or resentment among others.
Even the current national flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina – blue with a yellow triangle and stars – receives little affection. Many see it as an imposed symbol, chosen by the UN High Representative rather than organically embraced by the people. This lack of attachment has left room for historic and ethnic flags to dominate public sentiment, sometimes reigniting old tensions.
Bosnia is not alone in its struggles with "contested" flags. In Serbia, the Sandžak flag faces similar disapproval, while Spain's Catalan flag remains a point of contention in its own autonomy debates.
 | Tea Kljajić The fleur-de-lis controversy in Republika Srpska follows a predictable pattern, echoing how other ethnic or regional flags might provoke backlash if displayed in areas where the majority population identifies differently. While such reactions may be expected, they highlight the lingering sensitivities in regions where history and identity remain deeply interwoven with symbols like flags. The treatment of the fleur-de-lis in Banja Luka is not necessarily justified, but it underscores the complexities of coexistence in Bosnia and the enduring power of symbols to unite – or divide – a nation. |
Welcome to The European Correspondent
Europe lacks true European media: in Germany alone, there are more media devoted exclusively to football than news outlets specialising on Europe. The established players mainly focus on Brussels and European institutions. The European Correspondent aims to change that. We cover the whole of Europe and write for a community of citizens who want to look beyond their own national borders. Without European journalism, there is no European civil society.
〉Read our manifesto
〉The stories we would like to write for you
Become a donor!
The European Correspondent is fully funded by its readers. We can only produce the newsletter with your support - and work towards the bigger project: building true European media. Donate now!
With your help, we can create true European journalism. Thank you!
We are non-profit. Every donated € goes directly into The European Correspondent.