The trade union confederations of the two entities of Bosnia-Herzegovina, the Bosnian-Croatian Federation and the Republika Srspka, have decided at a founding assembly held in Sarajevo on 24 June to set up a common umbrella organisation.

The new Confederation of Independent Trade Unions of Bosnia-Herzegovina represents 500 000 workers. ETUC General Secretary, John Monks, said: “By their decision to establish a common organisation, the trade unions of Bosnia-Herzegovina are sending a strong signal to the whole society to overcome the still strong divisions caused by the war.” The new confederation will join the European Trade Union Confederation later this year.