I. Introduction: A Divided Society 
Bosnia and Herzegovina, nearly three decades after the end of its brutal war, remains a deeply divided society. Ethnic discrimination permeates politics, education, and employment, shaping the lives of Bosniaks, Croats, and Serbs, as well as minority groups such as Roma and Jews. This discrimination undermines social cohesion, limits opportunities, and convinces many Bosnians that their only chance for dignity lies abroad. 

II. Historical Roots of Division 
The 1992–1995 Bosnian war entrenched ethnic divisions, leaving scars that remain visible today. The Dayton Peace Agreement ended the conflict but institutionalised ethnicity as the foundation of governance. This arrangement, meant to ensure balance, has instead cemented division, with ethnic identity dictating access to power and opportunity. As a result, discrimination continues to define Bosnia’s post-war reality. 

III. The Constitutional Discrimination Case 
Bosnia’s constitution has been criticised for discriminating against minorities. The European Court of Human Rights has repeatedly ruled that provisions barring Jews, Roma, and other minorities from holding the presidency or seats in the upper house violate human rights. Despite these rulings, political elites have resisted reforms, leaving minority groups structurally excluded from political participation. 

IV. Education and Ethnic Segregation 
One of the starkest examples of discrimination lies in Bosnia’s education system. The practice of 'two schools under one roof' keeps students of different ethnicities segregated, often learning different versions of history. This segregation reinforces prejudice from an early age, limiting interaction and fostering mistrust. For families seeking equality for their children, migration becomes an appealing alternative. 

V. Employment and Everyday Discrimination 
Employment opportunities in Bosnia are heavily influenced by ethnicity. Public sector jobs are often distributed along ethnic lines, with minorities excluded from fair competition. Nepotism and patronage dominate, leaving those without ethnic or political connections at a disadvantage. Citizens frequently report that ethnic identity matters more than merit in securing employment, pushing skilled professionals abroad. 

VI. Discrimination Against Roma and Other Minorities 
Roma communities in Bosnia face some of the harshest discrimination. Many Roma live in poverty, lacking access to education, healthcare, and adequate housing. Discrimination and exclusion make upward mobility nearly impossible. Other minorities, such as Jews, also remain marginalised in political and social life. These conditions leave minority communities particularly vulnerable to emigration. 

VII. Everyday Consequences for Citizens 
Ethnic discrimination shapes daily life in Bosnia: 

- Politics: ethnic quotas and veto powers dominate decision-making. 
- Justice courts are seen as biased along ethnic lines. 
- Healthcare: access varies between entities and ethnic-majority regions. 
- Social trust: divisions reinforce prejudice and weaken social cohesion. 

These realities leave citizens frustrated and mistrustful of institutions. 

VIII. Migration as an Escape 
Migration has become a common response to discrimination. For many Bosnians, leaving is not only about economic opportunity but also about escaping a system where ethnicity determines one’s prospects. Germany, Austria, and other EU countries remain popular destinations, offering fairness and stability. For younger generations in particular, migration is seen as the only path to equality. 

IX. International Assessments 
International organisations have consistently criticised Bosnia for failing to address ethnic discrimination. The European Union, the Council of Europe, and the United Nations have urged constitutional reform to end structural exclusion. Human rights NGOs highlight the persistence of segregation in education and systemic inequalities in employment. Despite pressure, political elites continue to block meaningful change. 

X. Social and Demographic Consequences 
The exodus driven by discrimination has profound consequences. Bosnia faces one of the highest emigration rates in Europe, with entire communities leaving in search of equality. Brain drain undermines economic development, while depopulation weakens rural areas. The loss of diversity and civic voices diminishes the prospects for reconciliation and reform. 

XI. Pathways to Equality 
To address discrimination, Bosnia must: 

- Reform its constitution to allow equal political participation for all citizens. 
- End segregation in education and promote inclusive curricula. 
- Enforce anti-discrimination laws in employment and public services. 
- Support integration programs for Roma and other minorities. 
- Foster civic initiatives that build trust across communities. 

These measures are vital for creating a society where ethnicity no longer determines opportunity. 

XII. Conclusion: Migration as a Protest Against Discrimination 
Ethnic discrimination continues to define life in Bosnia and Herzegovina, pushing citizens to seek dignity and equality abroad. For many, emigration is both an escape from exclusion and a rejection of a system that privileges ethnicity over merit. Unless Bosnia embraces genuine reform and inclusivity, it risks further depopulation and the erosion of its fragile democracy.