The prices of basic foodstuffs have reached astronomical heights. Statistics show that inflation in the first half of the year, compared to the previous one, was higher by almost nine percent. In practice, these figures mean that even the most basic things have become unaffordable for many citizens, and the extent of poverty is also indicated by the increased number of food thefts in markets and retail chains.
Poverty in Bosnia and Herzegovina has gained a new dimension. In addition to those who beg on the street and search containers for a bite of stale bread, there are more and more citizens who steal food, canned goods, meat and pate from retail chains. According to the police, this is especially noticeable in the winter.
“When we talk about these three summer months, for the year 2023, 19 criminal acts of theft were recorded. 13 persons and one minor were reported.”
Pictures from stores all over Bosnia and Herzegovina show that food theft has really taken off. The so-called buzzers are placed by merchants on butter, preserves, jams and the like.
“In earlier years, other things were stolen in shopping centers, most often textile products and clothes were stolen, but if it came to a situation, and there is talk about it, that consumers, citizens started taking food products as well, then you know that it is safe the situation is very difficult, it means that purchasing power has decreased, considering the previous period and that inflation has taken its toll,” says Jovan Vasilic, Consumer Association “Zvono”.
According to sociologist Drago Vuković, food theft is an indicator of a deep crisis and an alarm to the authorities that they need to react immediately.
“All these post-communist societies are poor, societies in transition, they did not initiate a strong development drive, as is done in other societies, and on the other hand we have strong corruption and crime. And then we get the consequence you mention,” explains Drago Vukovic, sociologist.
The short-term actions of the authorities are not enough, a systemic, long-term solution is needed, appeal our interlocutors and add that society is spiraling unstoppably into misery.
