In front of the deputies, the banning of the Ustasha greeting and the regulation of cars in traffic

The 40th regular session of the House of Representatives of the Parliamentary Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina commenced today with a comprehensive agenda consisting of 42 items. Among these, one of the most significant proposals under discussion is the Draft Law on Amendments to the Criminal Code of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This proposal was introduced by Branislav Borenović of the Party of Democratic Progress (PDP). The draft law aims to introduce prison sentences for individuals who publicly display symbols associated with the Independent State of Croatia (NDH) and the Ustasha movement. According to the proposed amendments, which have already received support during the first reading at the previous session, actions such as shouting the greeting “Za dom spremni” or publicly displaying symbols linked to the NDH and Ustasha movement could result in imprisonment for up to three years. During the initial vote, members of the Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) opposed this proposal, while all other present representatives supported its adoption.

In addition to this controversial legislative initiative, the agenda includes the Draft Law on Amendments and Supplements to the Road Safety Act of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This proposal has been submitted by Aida Baručić, who seeks to legally define rules for the use of electric bicycles in traffic. Currently, these vehicles have not been formally regulated within the legal framework governing road safety. Another item on the agenda is a proposal by Jasmin Imamović of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) titled the Law on Management of Administrative Property of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This law would establish guidelines for the usage, management, and allocation of property held by state institutions, services, and agencies.

The session is set to begin at 11 AM, marking the start of what promises to be a lengthy and potentially contentious debate over several important legislative measures. The discussions surrounding the criminalization of Ustasha symbols have sparked considerable interest and concern among political actors and civil society groups alike. These symbols, historically associated with World War II-era atrocities committed by the Ustasha regime, remain a sensitive topic in the region due to their connection with wartime violence and ethnic persecution.

The proposed amendment to the Criminal Code reflects broader efforts to address historical grievances and ensure that symbols of extremism and war crimes are not glorified or promoted in public spaces. However, the opposition from HDZ members highlights the complex interplay between national identity, historical memory, and contemporary legislation. While supporters argue that such measures are necessary to prevent the resurgence of extremist ideologies, critics contend that they may infringe upon freedom of expression and historical discourse.

Beyond the legislative debates, the session also features reports from the Management Board of BHRT regarding financial operations and programming plans for 2026, alongside reports from judicial institutions. These additional topics underscore the multifaceted nature of the parliamentary proceedings, which extend beyond single-issue legislation to encompass broader governance and institutional accountability issues.

As the session progresses, the outcomes of the deliberations will likely influence future policy directions and public perception of the legislative body's role in shaping the legal landscape of Bosnia and Herzegovina. With multiple proposals requiring careful consideration and potential compromise, the coming days will be crucial in determining how these initiatives are ultimately implemented or modified. The discussions are expected to continue into subsequent sessions, reflecting the ongoing importance of these legislative priorities in the country’s political and social fabric.