OSCE Mission presents report on learning and teaching on the period of 1992-1995 in primary schools throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina

SARAJEVO, 26 April 2023 – The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) today launched a report on learning and teaching on the period of 1992-1995 in primary schools throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina, “History Teaching Materials on 1992-1995 in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Building Trust or Deepening Divides?”.

Written by an external researcher, Dr. Heike Karge, the report provides an overview of learning and teaching practices regarding the history of 1992-1995 in primary schools across BiH.

The report specifically examines history curricula, textbooks, and teaching materials with a focus on 1992-1995. This period remains one of the most controversial periods in BiH and the region.

“We hope that the Report will spark an interest among education authorities and the education community in co-operating more intensely on this important issue,” said Ambassador Brian Aggeler, Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH. “The aim is for education authorities to adopt approaches whereby critical thinking is encouraged, introducing multiperspectivity, and promoting greater mutual understanding. This would have a profound impact on youth – and ultimately a profound impact on society as a whole across the country.”

The report proposes recommendations for improving mutual understanding and trust between individuals and communities to create more durable reconciliation in BiH.

“In recent years teaching materials have improved in many important aspects. But, when it comes to the teaching of the recent war, our analysis concludes that these materials are ethnically biased and hinder reconciliation” said Dr. Heike Kerge. “Teaching about a recent war is an incredibly difficult and sensitive task in a postwar society. Now, nearly 30 years after the end of the war, it may be time to initiate a substantial change.”

This report is part of the wider efforts of the OSCE Mission to BiH to support authorities across BiH in creating inclusive and quality education without discrimination.