THE WORLD BANK AND BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA: DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP OR DEPENDENCY?
THE WORLD BANK AND BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA: DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP OR DEPENDENCY?

Summary/Abstract: This paper analyzes the role of the World Bank in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which has needed assistance for reconstruction from the post-war years until today. The research focuses on the dynamics of the relationship between the World Bank, as an international financial institution, and the domestic economy to characterize a relationship that passes through phases from assistance to dependency. Through geographical and comparative analysis, the paper concludes a dual connection: the World Bank invests significant resources in reconstruction, which simultaneously creates dependency through long-term indebtedness and uneven regional development within the country. The results point to the need for a change in Bosnia and Herzegovina's negotiating position to break out of the vicious circle of dependency. Bosnia and Herzegovina requires a more active negotiating strategy that would enable it to shift from the position of a passive negotiator accepting conditions that cause long-term negative consequences. Therefore, an urgent new negotiating strategy aimed at sustainable development is needed.

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