Islamic fundamentalism in Bosnia after 1991

Abstract

The author analyzes the phenomenon of Islamic fundamentalism in Bosnia and Herzegovina after 1991, presenting its origins, development, and consequences for contemporary Bosnian society. The starting point is the transformation of Bosnia from a multiethnic and secular society of socialist Yugoslavia into a war-torn state, where religion began to play an increasingly important role in shaping both identity and politics. The background of the study is the 1992–1995 armed conflict, which triggered the influx of foreign volunteers-mujahedeen-and the emergence of radical circles inspired by Wahhabi ideology. The author’s aim is to show to what extent Bosnian Islam has been influenced by external factors and whether fundamentalism poses a real threat to the country’s stability. The study draws mainly on press reports, materials from international organizations, academic works, and online sources documenting the activities of Islamic groups in post-war Bosnia. The author employs comparative analysis and case study methods, juxtaposing local Islamic traditions with imported religious models. The findings indicate that, despite the presence of radical groups, the influence of Islamic fundamentalism in Bosnia remains limited. Most Bosniaks reject extremist interpretations of Islam, adhering instead to a moderate and tolerant form of religiosity. Although Wahhabi movements are active and externally funded, they represent a marginal social phenomenon. Nonetheless, their presence generates tensions and constitutes a potential threat to social cohesion and Bosnia and Herzegovina’s integration with the European Union.