An analysis of demographic indicators in 24 municipalities and towns with a majority Croatian population in Bosnia and Herzegovina for the period from the most recent census conducted in 2013 to 2024 reveals the presence of natural depopulation and highly adverse changes in the age structure of the population, resulting in a reduced capacity for demographic sustainability. The research findings confirm alarming negative demographic trends across all analysed areas. Natural population change is negative in most municipalities, with the exception of the West Herzegovina Canton, which records a slightly positive trend. However, the levels of natural increase are insufficient to offset the rapid growth in the proportion of elderly persons. All key indicators related to the age structure of the population are highly unfavourable. The ageing index and old-age dependency ratio are increasing in all areas, while the youth dependency ratio is declining, indicating an inadequate level of demographic renewal. Overall age dependency is also rising. These trends pose serious challenges to the long-term sustainability of Croatian communities in Bosnia and Herzegovina and highlight the urgent need for demographic revitalisation.
Martina Miljak (Mon,) studied this question.