Understanding the Term ‘Bosnian’

The Ethnic Division of the Country as it stands today (2024)

Answering a Frequently Asked Question

One of the most common questions I get, both from friends and guests, as well as through my YouTube channel and here on Substack, is about the meaning behind the term “Bosnian.”

In this post, I try, as best as I can as a foreigner here in Bosnia and Herzegovina, to explain what may seem simple but is actually quite complicated, and is a MUST KNOW if you visit this amazingly beautiful country.

The Question

Hello David,

I am thankful to the YouTube algorithm which brought me to your channel. I live in Dublin and i love traveling to Central Europe (especially Poland, Romania and Hungary where I have been countless times) but Bosnia Herzegovina as well as Serbia, and Montenegro are on my travel list.

I read so many books about the 1995 war, the WWII period in Serbia/Croatia and even a book on the Ottoman occupation.

Quick question, when you are referring to "Bosnian" being friendly. My gut feeling is that the terminology "Bosnian" that you use refers to the inhabitants of Bosnia and has no religious connotations (unlike Bosniak), which means that when you say "Bosnian" it could be ethnic Croats, ethnics Serbs or Ethnic Bosniaks as long as they feel Bosnian and cherish their nationality versus their ethnicity/religion?.

A wee bit as if you used "Northern Irish", versus Irish or British for up north.

If you could please correct and educate me if i got it wrong.

My Reply

Hello and thank you for reaching out!

Your love for Central Europe and interest in traveling to the Balkans show a curiosity that resonates deeply with me. I hope your plans to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Montenegro become a reality soon, as these places offer rich histories, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes.

Your thoughtful question about terminology struck a chord, as it’s an issue many people wrestle with when exploring this region. Let me unpack it as best I can.

“Bosnian” vs. “Bosniak” - The Key Distinction.

You’re absolutely right in suspecting that the term “Bosnian” is used as a broad, inclusive identity for anyone living in Bosnia and Herzegovina, regardless of ethnicity or religion.

It encompasses ethnic Bosniaks (predominantly Muslim), ethnic Croats (predominantly Catholic), and ethnic Serbs (predominantly Orthodox Christians), as well as smaller groups like Jews, Roma, and others.

When I refer to “Bosnians” being friendly, I’m speaking about the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a whole, not one particular ethnic or religious group.

This term is geographic and civic, much like “Northern Irish” in your example, rather than “Bosniak,” which specifically refers to the Bosnian Muslim ethnic group.

For clarity:
• “Bosnian”: Refers to all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina, regardless of ethnicity or religion.
• “Bosniak”: Refers specifically to the Muslim ethnic group within Bosnia and Herzegovina.

You hit the nail on the head when you compared this to “Northern Irish.” Just as Northern Irish identity can encompass people with differing political, cultural, or religious affiliations (Irish or British), “Bosnian” reflects a shared national identity among diverse ethnicities.

That said, in practice, not everyone in Bosnia embraces “Bosnian” as their primary identity.

Historical, cultural, and political factors often mean that people identify primarily as Bosniak, Croat, or Serb first, and “Bosnian” second (if at all).

This brings us to an important nuance:

A Bosnian can identify with their ethnic roots while also cherishing their connection to Bosnia as a homeland.

The tension or harmony between these identities varies from person to person.

Your deep dive into books about the 1990’s war, WWII, and even the Ottoman period reflects how these histories still shape identity in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The legacy of conflict, coupled with centuries of cultural overlap, makes for a unique mosaic of people who are resilient, proud, and often deeply connected to their shared land despite their differences.

In my experience, one thing most Bosnians share is a love of hospitality.

Regardless of their ethnicity or religion, people here go out of their way to make you feel welcome, share their culture, and tell their stories.

Whether it’s a cup of strong Bosnian coffee, a rakija toast, or a heartfelt conversation about the past, people here take pride in showing visitors their humanity and warmth.

So, you are absolutely correct. When I refer to “Bosnians,” I mean all inhabitants of Bosnia and Herzegovina, united by their connection to this beautiful and complex country.

Your instinct is spot on, and I love how you’ve drawn parallels with Northern Ireland. It’s a brilliant way to understand the nuances of identity in this region.

Bests,

David

Thank You for Being Here

If you’ve read this far, thank you. Your support means the world to me, whether it’s a comment, a subscription, or just taking the time to share this post.

If you’re interested in supporting me but not through a paid Substack Subscription, my Buy Me a Coffee page is always open.

And, I’d be thrilled if you’d check out my new YouTube channel. It’s not about chasing numbers anymore; it’s about connecting with people who get it, who understand the joys and challenges of this phase of life.

Videmo se opet (I’ll see you again soon).