OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina launches report on ‘two schools under one roof’ concept as most visible example of discrimination in education

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) presented a report titled ‘Two schools under one roof’: The Most Visible Example of Discrimination in Education in Bosnia and Herzegovina on 3 December 2018 in Sarajevo.

This report addresses the practice of ‘two schools under one roof’ as the most visible manifestation of discrimination in the education system of the country and includes recommendations to advance the vision of a peaceful, stable and multi-ethnic BiH.

“This report outlines several practical steps that can be taken toward ending discrimination and segregation in education,” said Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina Bruce G. Berton.  “Steps involve political dialogue, increased interaction between children, comprehensive implementation of the Common Core Curriculum based on Student Learning Outcomes, respect for court decisions and legal and administrative unification of schools, which we see as a positive start toward ending ‘two schools under one roof’. These steps require only the commitment of BiH’s elected leaders.”

Today, ‘two schools under one roof’ persists in 56 schools in BiH. These include primary schools and secondary schools, both branch schools and central schools. They vary in specific characteristics, size and location.

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina will continue to advocate with authorities at the highest level for respect for human rights, including the right to an education free from all forms of discrimination, in line with OSCE commitments.

Reports in official languages of BiH and English are available for download at: https://www.osce.org/mission-to-bosnia-and-herzegovina/404990