Hip_Urednik
Pensioners in Bosnia and Herzegovina are struggling to afford a dignified life, with their average annual incomes of approximately 9,100 KM starkly contrasted against the up to 95,000 KM earned by political officials and representatives. This immense income disparity, described by some as the largest in the world, leaves many retirees barely able to cover essential living costs despite recent pension adjustments.
In Tuzla, where retirees gathered to voice their concerns, the reality of their financial predicament became palpable. Sabaha Dugalić, a pensioner, described a common scenario: “First I pay the bills, if anything is left… Bills are high, they must be paid. From what’s left, I set aside something for medicine, and I try to stretch the rest until next month.” Sead Kulović added that while many live by the principle of having children abroad, not all receive financial support from them, forcing them to prioritize utility payments above all else. Sonja Kulović echoed this sentiment, stating that even with three sons abroad, seeking financial assistance from them is not a viable or desirable solution.
Vehid Jahić, president of the New Pensioners’ Party, underscored the profound economic imbalance. He noted that while the average annual pension hovers around 9,100 KM and average salaries are about 19,000 KM annually, those in power – officials and representatives – command incomes reaching up to 95,000 KM per year. Jahić asserted that this represents the “largest disproportion in the world.”
Despite the widespread dissatisfaction with low pensions and the escalating cost of living, which seems to largely bypass decision-makers with their substantial incomes, public expression of discontent remains largely confined to online platforms, with few individuals participating in organized protests on the ground.
