Member of the Assembly of the Central Bosnia Canton (CBC), Suzana Kristo, believes that the position of women in Bosnian-Herzegovinian (BiH) society is still far from genuine equality.
“Although there are legal assumptions, legal quotas, and formal measures for the inclusion of women in political and social processes, in practice women are still insufficiently represented in decision-making positions,” said Kristo.
A broader social shift in awareness is needed
“A broader social shift in awareness is needed. Only a society that provides equal opportunities for success, regardless of gender, can be truly democratic, progressive, and fair,” Kristo believes.
Speaking about the reasons why there is a small number of women in politics and generally in decision-making positions, she says that one of the main reasons is still a deeply rooted patriarchal system, which often assigns women a role in the private, family sphere, while power and decision-making are still traditionally associated with men.
“In addition to that come the lack of systematic support, limited access to political networks, and often a very aggressive and sexist atmosphere within political parties. Women often face double standards – what is seen as decisiveness in men is perceived as ‘coldness’ or ‘excessive ambition’ in women. Such stereotypes discourage many from even getting involved in political engagement,” states Kristo.
Women show enormous potential
Suzana Kristo, who holds a master’s degree in food technology and is a court expert in the field of agriculture at the level of the Federation of BiH (FBiH), also spoke about women’s entrepreneurship and the opportunities offered by the agricultural-food sector.
“Women’s entrepreneurship in BiH is present, but still not sufficiently developed nor systematically supported. Women are often the heads of smaller businesses, mostly in service activities, while access to capital, support, and the market is still limited,” said Kristo.
According to her, women show enormous potential, but they need concrete support – through grants, mentorships, education, and promotion of good practice examples.
