The tragedy of 1992-1995 was only the latest in a long cycle of violence plaguing this region. Irreconcilable animosity has burdened Bosnia with two separate mini-states and a presidency rotating among the three main factions, an inefficient and expensive situation that drains up to 50% of the GDP. Few of the displaced have resettled in their original homes, preferring to huddle together along sectarian lines. Although buildings and roads are being restored, deep communal wounds remain. Appropriate justice for war criminals still at large and fair solutions for all must be obtained. True reconciliation and unity will occur only by a powerful intervention from the Great Reconciler.

The post-war socio-economic situation is troubled, and recovery is slow. A poor country even before the strife, Bosnia still struggles with poverty. Only organized crime syndicates do well for themselves; these groups must be shut down if Bosnia hopes to join the EU with all the accompanying financial rewards. Young people in particular are pessimistic – more than 60% want to leave the country; the brain and youth drains further sap Bosnia’s potential. Pray for economic transformation, and for a new generation of Bosnians to lead their nation into a bright future rather than flee a sinking ship.