The Impact of Democracy on Gender-Based Violence in Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Post-Bosnian Conflict
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Abstract
The transition from authoritarianism to democracy is often assumed to lead to improved human rights protection, including a reduction in gender-based violence (GBV). Bosnia and Herzegovina, as a post-conflict country that adopted a democratic system through the Dayton Agreement in 1995, continues to struggle with establishing inclusive and sustainable peace. This study aims to examine whether the advancement of democracy in Bosnia has contributed to the decline of GBV from 1995 to 2024. Using a quantitative correlational approach and secondary data, the research analyzes the relationship between democratic development—measured through six rule of law indicators—and trends in GBV. The findings indicate that there is no causal relationship between the increase in democracy and the decrease in GBV. In fact, GBV in Bosnia has increased over the past three decades, despite a relatively stable democracy index. This suggests that procedural democracy does not automatically translate into protection for women, especially in the absence of substantial institutional and social reform. The study highlights the need to assess democratic quality more holistically, particularly in post-conflict settings, to ensure justice and protection for vulnerable groups. These findings also contribute to the broader discussion on the limitations of Democratic Peace Theory in addressing issues of domestic and gender-based violence.
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