Demographic Challenges and Spatial Distribution of the Population in the Republika Srpska Cover Image

Демографски изазови и просторни размјештај становништва Републике Српске
Demographic Challenges and Spatial Distribution of the Population in the Republika Srpska

Author(s): Rajko Vranješ, Dara Petković
Subject(s): Human Geography, Demography and human biology
Published by: Матица српска
Keywords: The Republika Srpska; density; demographic trends; migration

Summary/Abstract: For the first time in 22 years, an official census of population was carried out on the territory of the Republika Srpska. This is the first time that we have data (preliminary results) based on which we can examine the demographic situation, spatial distribution of the population and certain ongoing demographic processes. Based on the analysis of preliminary results on the total number of enumerated persons and through the analysis of natural increase in migration flows, the article will present the demographic problem faced by the Republika Srpska. The analysis of first results shows that entire regions have low population densities, being affected by depopulation which is caused mainly by negative natural movements and migrations. Rural areas which represented a demographic potential are being depopulated and some of them have no inhabitants at all. The unfavourable spatial distribution, low level of natural regeneration and constant emigration seriously endanger the total number of population in the Republika Srpska, which has been steadily declining ever since 2002. Constant negative socio-economic effects in the short term could jeopardize the development of the population and the very maintenance of infrastructure in settlements in Republika Srpska.

  • Issue Year: 2014
  • Issue No: 148
  • Page Range: 813-821
  • Page Count: 9
  • Language: English