2233-100X (Online ISSN) | 1986-5813 (Print ISSN) UPRAVA is scientific and professional journal published by the Faculty of Administration, University of Sarajevo.
Fakultet za upravu u Sarajevu (www.fu.unsa.ba)
Functional Competencies of Local Self-Government Units and Barriers to Active Citizen Participation
The main goal of the paper is to research the functional competences of local self-government units in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the region and beyond, and ways of citizen participation at the local level through the analysis of data on the competences of local self-government units and ways of organizing citizens. This topic is one of the basic drivers of democratic, social and social processes at the level of the local community because it enables greater productivity and efficiency of employees of local self-government units and benefits for the local population. Functional competences enable various benefits for the work of local authorities as well as more active participation of citizens in the process of participation at the local level. Local communities in Bosnia and Herzegovina have good conditions for the development of citizens' associations, which in this way leads to a better quality of life for citizens. Citizens are increasingly recognizing the importance of active participation because they are the main force and the driving force that solves their problems, and therefore it is very difficult to expect local government employees to solve citizens' problems. In this way, through associations and organizations, citizens have a way to become active and to lobby and advocate for issues that concern them at the local level. Earlier experiences and literature in Bosnia and Herzegovina do not go too far into the past in this matter. Only with the introduction of democratic processes and the establishment of associations and the exchange of practices, citizens become aware of the importance of organizing in the place where they live. Therefore, for Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as for most countries and the region, this issue is somewhat unexplored, but the number of successful examples that show how the competences of local self-government lead to positive changes and that influence the increased participation of citizens increases from year to year. The survey was conducted in 15 selected local self-government units according to the statistical method, and included employees, business entities and citizens. There are numerous challenges in this area, and one of them is that there are functional competencies in local administration that should be directed to serve the interests of citizens. In addition, this research provides a detailed overview and analysis of the obstacles facing citizens to address their problems at the local level. Bearing in mind that the presented topic is quite well-known, but also insufficiently researched in our country, it is necessary to analyze in detail the key areas and challenges related to it. All these areas describe the state of local administration, analyze the competencies and level of citizen engagement in solving their problems, and provide examples of good practices from other environments in the country, region, and beyond.
The Myth of the Universal Citizen or How Liberalism Is Devouring Democracy
This paper analyzes the fundamental tension between liberal universalism and democratic substance through the lens of Carl Schmitt’s political theory. Starting from Schmitt’s thesis that equating all human beings simply as human beings negates the very essence of democracy, the text deconstructs the contemporary civic model not as a space of freedom, but as a deliberate project of depoliticization and the disempowerment of the people. The paper examines Schmitt’s argument that liberal humanism, by denying national identity, ultimately undermines democracy itself. The author contends that, under the guise of universal rights, an ideological pacification of peoples is carried out in order to make them more easily governable. Such a model does not bring peace; rather, it establishes a form of moral totalitarianism that transforms political opponents into enemies of humanity. National homogeneity is affirmed as a necessary safeguard of democracy against the erasure of a community’s right to determine its own destiny.
The Historical Dimension of the Origin and Development of the Administrative Bodies of the European Union
The European Union (EU) is an economic and political community, an intergovernmental and supranational community of European states, created as a practical result of the process of cooperation and integration processes initiated in 1951 between six states (Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg and the Netherlands). An extremely significant global institutional organization of states with about 450 million inhabitants, it is clear that it represents a very significant economic (number of consumers of goods and services) - social (number of inhabitants) potential. Formally - the legal framework that defines the establishment and functional principles of the European Union is regulated by elements of Community law, which practically represents a complete system of legal rules that regulate the complete system of social relations within the European Union. The above-mentioned legal elements are mainly consensual, or contractual in nature, and have supremacy over the national legislation of the European Union member states, which is also a consensual principle.
Securing Democracy: NATO and EU Contributions to Bulgaria’s Post-1989 Transition
At the end of the 1980s, the Cold War ended, shifting the balance of power. The disintegration of the Soviet Union and the Warsaw Pact led to the democratization of communist systems in Central and Eastern Europe. Despite the rapid political changes, NATO and the European Community acted to fill the void left by the Soviet Union. To ensure the continuation of the democratization process in Bulgaria, it was necessary to prioritize security, which was realised through NATO membership. From a NATO perspective, Bulgaria's membership was an important opportunity to protect Europe's eastern borders1 and the Black Sea region2.In addressing this geopolitical issue, the primary objective was to integrate Central and Eastern European countries transitioning from communism to democracy into NATO and the European Union. While the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has played a role in securing the democracies of its member countries, the European Union (EU) has contributed to political integration and the strengthening of democracies. Bulgaria has faced various challenges and achieved successes on its path towards democratization since 1989. Two significant external factors influenced the consolidation of democracy in Bulgaria: NATO and the European Union. Given that Bulgaria lacks a democratic tradition, its membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the European Union (EU) has addressed two key deficiencies. Firstly, it has provided a means of safeguarding the country's nascent democracy. Secondly, it has facilitated the consolidation and deepening of democratic processes. The primary objective of the article is to examine the influence of two external factors, NATO and the EU, on Bulgaria's democratic development.
Public Relations as a Governance Function in the Public Administration of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina: Strategic Challenges, Societal Impact and Reform Perspectives
Communication establishes and sustains the foundations of a successful organization. In public administration, communication represents a prerequisite for the development, transformation, and acceptance of the dynamic nature of organizational processes. The concept and evolution of the so-called communicative organization constitute a fundamental basis for citizens’ trust in public authorities. Communicators, in both internal and external contexts, articulate the value of communication and contribute to creating its competitive advantage by supporting the sustainable functioning and reproduction of organizational values and objectives. This paper analyzes public relations as an integrative managerial function within the bodies of state administration of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, drawing on contemporary theoretical approaches to public communication and standards of good governance. The empirical research focuses on the communication function and the position of communicators within public administration bodies in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the aim of assessing the extent to which institutional communication meets the requirements of transparency, accountability, and participation, as well as identifying key structural and functional deficiencies that act as limiting factors in the development of a communicative organization. Particular research emphasis is placed on the comparative model of government communication in the United Kingdom, as one of the most advanced institutional frameworks for managing public communication. The paper further examines the application of contemporary public communication standards within institutional settings, highlighting the importance of positioning public relations as a strategic managerial function aimed at enhancing proactive transparency in public administration, the effective implementation of reforms, societal impact, and public trust.
Evidencing and Reporting on the Resolution of Administrative Matters in Administrative Procedures – Basic Prerequisites for Assessing the State and Improving Administrative Decision-Making
Evidence and reporting on the resolution of administrative matters represent an important instrument for monitoring the efficiency, legality, transparency, and accountability of administrative authorities. This paper analyzes the normative framework and the practice of maintaining evidence and preparing annual reports on the resolution of administrative matters in the institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a particular focus on the period 2019–2024. Based on data from the Consolidated Reports on the Resolution of Administrative Matters, the paper presents trends regarding the number of institutions submitting reports, the number of administrative fields, the volume of first-instance and second-instance proceedings, as well as the structure of deadlines and decision-making outcomes. The analysis shows that during the observed period there was an increase in the number of institutions submitting reports, as well as an increase in the number of administrative fields, indicating a gradual strengthening of reporting practice. At the same time, statistical indicators reveal a relatively high level of timeliness in resolving administrative cases, with an average of more than 89% of cases resolved within the legally prescribed deadlines. However, certain shortcomings have also been identified, particularly the presentation of data in a summary form, which prevents detailed analysis by administrative fields and limits the possibility of timely identification of bottlenecks in administrative decision-making. The paper emphasizes the need to improve the existing system of evidence and reporting through the standardization of evidence forms, more frequent reporting, and the introduction of modern analytical mechanisms. It concludes that the transition from traditional, annual, and predominantly paper-based reporting to a system enabling continuous monitoring and analytical processing of data represents an important prerequisite for improving administrative decision-making, strengthening institutional accountability, and aligning with the standards of the European Administrative Space.
Dear academic and professional community, dear readers, We have the honor and pleasure to present you the new, first in 2026, issue of the journal “Administration“, a scientific journal of administration and administrative law. The journal “Administration“ in continues since 2010, publishing scientific and professional papers and analysis from various domains of government and administrative law. Topics represent an important segment in the understanding, knowledge and insights that are of scientific and wider social importance. The thematic units covered by this issue of the journal are a combination of different approaches to public administration and all other aspects that are more or less related to administration. We thank, once again, our authors, readers, editorial staff, governing bodies of the Faculty of Administration and the University of Sarajevo, representatives of scientific bases in which the journal is indexed and all those who have contributed to the development of the journal in recent years. On behalf of the Editors of the Journal, the best regards and recommendations for this issue.
Do States Conduct Foreign Policy Rationally?
How States think: the rationality of foreign policy, John J. Mearsheimer; Sebastian Rosato, Yale, University press: New Haven & London, 2023
Influence of Civil Society Organizations on Improvement of Political Dialogue in Bosnia and Herzegovina
The main goal of this paper is to show how civil society organizations contribute to the reform of public administration in Bosnia and Herzegovina through the establishment of political dialogue. The survey was conducted at the local, cantonal, entity and state level on a representative and stratified sample (10% - according to the statistical method). A total of 62 respondents took part, including activists from civil sector organizations as well as employees of state administration bodies. One of the main assumptions of the research axis is how civil society organizations will contribute to the reform of public administration in Bosnia and Herzegovina through the establishment of political dialogue. This paper provides an overview and theoretical analysis of civil society organizations as well as the most important public policies advocated by them. In addition, a comparison of public policies and their practical application in neighboring countries as well as in the countries of the European Union was made. The research problem is reflected in looking at the started process of transformation and the unfinished process of transition of Bosnian civil sector organizations, which have been significantly active in the recent period, especially in the field of environmental and social public policies. The subject of this research reflects on the role and importance as well as the influence of civil society organizations on the processes of adopting public policies as well as on the correlation with state authorities. The key issues investigated in this paper are the importance of implementing the Agreement on Cooperation between the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina and civil society organizations and the importance of including civil society organizations in the early stages of identifying problems and defining priorities. In addition, special attention was paid to the importance of political dialogue in defining the strategic direction of the development of public administration reform and the importance of establishing special institutional mechanisms for cooperation with civil society organizations, such as offices, agencies or departments for cooperation with organizations.
Corporate Lobbying: A Key Instrument for Positioning in the Business Environment and a Challenge for Regulation and Transparency
This paper problematizes the role of lobbying in the world of large corporations, but also among smaller companies and firms, with an emphasis on regulatory challenges for development and progress in achieving a more transparent socio-business environment. It provides clearer and more concrete insights into the intentions of corporate lobbying, its objectives, and the consequences it may have for society and the state, as well as the negative connotations it carries in the public due to the lack of adequate legal regulation. The responsibilities and competences of corporations and the state are contextualized through the perspectives created by lobbying for capital interests, along with ways to overcome the obstacles that slow down social reforms. The fundamental features and characteristics on which corporate lobbying is based are presented, which, in extreme cases, may pose a threat and a challenge to democracy. Finally, recommendations, ideas, and possibilities are offered that could lead to solutions beneficial to all – collectively – rather than merely serving the interests of the clients of corporate lobbyists who employ such political practices.
Conflict Management as a Function of Change Management in Public Enterprises
Conflict management represents a key challenge and tool in the process of managing organizational change, particularly in public enterprises operating in complex and bureaucratically structured environments. This paper explores the theoretical and empirical aspects of conflict management as a function of more effective implementation of changes in the public sector, with a specific focus on public enterprises in the Canton of Sarajevo. Thus, the subject of this research is public enterprises and conflict management within them, while the function of change management refers to the identification of factors that influence the emergence of conflicts during the implementation of changes, as well as the analysis and evaluation of methods by which such conflicts can be managed and resolved. The aim of this study is to examine workplace conflicts, perspectives on conflicts, their causes, the most effective resolution strategies, and personal experiences with conflicts and how they were resolved in the workplace — all with the ultimate goal of improving change management in public enterprises. Quantitative and qualitative research methods were used, including a survey conducted among employees of eleven public enterprises. The results show that the absence of formal conflict management strategies negatively affects the success of change implementation and that leadership styles and organizational culture are decisive factors in conflict resolution. The paper offers recommendations for establishing institutional mechanisms for conflict management to improve organizational adaptability.
Dear academic and professional community, dear readers, We have the honor and pleasure to present you the new, second in 2025, issue of the journal “Administration“, a scientific journal of administration and administrative law. The journal “Administration“ in continues since 2010, publishing scientific and professional papers and analysis from various domains of government and administrative law. In the issue, wich in front of you, the following papers have been published: CONFLICT MANAGEMENT AS A FUNCTION OF CHANGE MANAGEMENT IN PUBLIC ENTERPRISES (Đevad Šašić, Lejla Šuman); CORPORATE LOBBYING: A KEY INSTRUMENT FOR POSITIONING IN THE BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT AND A CHALLENGE FOR REGULATION AND TRANSPARENCY (Mustafa Mujkić); INFLUENCE OF CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS ON IMPROVEMENT OF POLITICAL DIALOGUE IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA (Džengis Hodžić); DO STATES CONDUCT FOREIGN POLICY RATIONALLY? (Hamza Memišević). Topics represent an important segment in the understanding, knowledge and insights that are of scientific and wider social importance. The thematic units covered by this issue of the journal are a combination of different approaches to public administration and all other aspects that are more or less related to administration. We thank, once again, our authors, readers, editorial staff, governing bodies of the Faculty of Administration and the University of Sarajevo, representatives of scientific bases in which the journal is indexed and all those who have contributed to the development of the journal in recent years. On behalf of the Editors of the Journal, the best regards and recommendations for this issue. Ermin Kuka, PhD Editor in Chief
The Role of Administrative Bodies in the Syistem of Democratic Control of Modern Armed Forces, With Emphasis on the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Hercegovina
The foundations of the modern understanding of democratic control of the armed forces have been the subject of many scientific works in the past period. This refers primarily to the accentuation of general assumptions for the establishment of democratic control of the armed forces, the past experiences related to the present limitations in the social segment in question, the perspectives and further direction of development, and the specific role of state administrative bodies during the implementation and establishment of elements of democratic control of the state security system in general. The basis of the complete elaboration in this scientific work is on the general characteristics of the position and functioning of the armed forces in modern democratic systems and the established mechanisms of democratic control of the Armed forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina within the framework of the Dayton Peace Agreement, more specifically its Article IV (Constitution of BiH).
Creation of Business Environment in Local Self–Governments in Bosnia and Herzegovina
The main goal of this work is to research the creation of a favorable business environment in local self–governments in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It represents one of the main drivers and reasons that enable local communities to grow and develop faster, thus becoming a desirable modern activity that the local community wants to engage in. The process of creating a favorable business environment promises a bright future for the local economy as well as for the environment. Local self–governments in Bosnia and Herzegovina have a large number of solid potentials for creating a favorable business environment that can strongly contribute to their economic development, and thus to the development of cantons, entities and the state, thereby contributing to a better living standard of citizens. In order to create an attractive environment for domestic and foreign investors, it is necessary to develop the entire concept of activities in the area of ​​the local self–government with defined goals, priorities, implementation and strategy. Previous literature and experiences have shown that the favorable environment in the area of ​​the local community represents a new and rather unexplored area in the world, in Europe and in the region, and therefore also in Bosnia and Herzegovina. So there is a limited number of successful examples, but the number of examples at the local level is increasing year by year, and the practices of certain local self–governments can be successfully applied in other locations as well. This research paper aims to investigate the process of creating a business environment in the local community, through a quantitative analysis of newly collected data on the degree of development of the business environment and the role of the local administration and the municipal mayor in that process. The survey was conducted at the local level – according to the statistical method, and included employees of local self–governments, business entities and citizens. One of the main assumptions is that a developed business environment contributes to greater investment and increased employment in local self–governments. In addition, this research provides a detailed overview and theoretical analysis of the creation of a favorable business environment that includes the business sector, local administration and citizens of the local community, as well as the application of good practices from locations that have a developed business environment. This paper also contributes to a better understanding of the role of local administration in the process of creating a business environment and the analysis of local self–government performance in the area of ​​economic development. In addition, the work contributes to the assessment of the current state of local administration, the activities of local administration in the whole process and the relationship with the business community and the issue of employment. The research problem is reflected in the fact that modern processes are largely unknown, and although they exist, they are often imperceptible, but they still play an increasingly important role in local administrations. Changes in society with the help of advanced technologies and the constant desire for more employment of citizens have created realistic assumptions for starting the creation of a business environment, addressing municipal mayors and local administration towards strategic decisions and documents, and represent a realistic basis for greater investments and improving the living standards of the population. The subject of this research is the impact of creating a business environment as part of economic development because it attracts and increases the interest of domestic and foreign investors in investing at the local level, which aims to create new jobs and improve the living standards of citizens of a local community. Given that this topic is relatively new in the modern science, it is necessary to analyze the key areas in detail. The key questions investigated in this paper are to describe the state of local administration, whether the local self–government has created a business environment or is in the process of doing so, what are the benefits of this process and the application of good practices from other local administrations.
Administrative Contract as a Substitute for an Administrative Act in the Resolution of Administrative Matters
The further reform requirements to complete democratization and debureaucratization of public administration actualize the issue of regulation and application of the institute of administrative contract in administrative procedure legislation and practice in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Amendments to the legal regulations of general administrative procedure in the countries of the Western Balkans, in addition to the introduction of European procedural standards in administrative decision–making, also provided for the standardization of basic issues of importance for the procedure of concluding administrative contracts and the legal protection of parties. The modernization of the administrative system and administrative procedure as a whole, in accordance with social changes and processes of integration into the European administrative space, imposes further reform interventions in the direction of harmonization with modern administrative practices, which makes the subject of research of this paper focused on comparative law regulations of administrative contracts as an administrative activity preceded by an administrative act, but also as a consensual modality by which an administrative matter is resolved in certain cases. As abandoning the traditional approach according to which the state cannot be a negotiator supports and enhances democratic outcomes and the social character of public administration, this justifies the instrumentalization of the administrative contract as a ADR–alternative dispute resolution mechanism in administrative matters. In the article, the authors will consider the reform perspective for the legal regulation of the institute of the administrative contract, i.e. their de lege ferenda perspective with legal protection in the general administrative procedural legislation in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Evolution of Public Administration as a Scientific Discipline: From Initial Positioning to Digital Transformation
The paper provides a comprehensive overview of the historical development of public administration as a scientific discipline, tracing the key phases of its evolution – from the theoretical distinction between politics and administration at the end of the 19th century, through the period of affirmation of universal administrative principles, to contemporary trends marked by digitalization and the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Through seven developmental stages, the authors analyze the theoretical contributions of key public administration theorists and the institutional changes that have shaped the discipline. Special emphasis is placed on the transformation of paradigms in public administration – from traditional hierarchical models to participatory, digitally oriented, and transparent governance systems. The paper also highlights current trends in the development of public administration, such as the advancement of digital services, application of artificial intelligence, citizen participation, operational transparency, and the professionalization of administrative personnel. In conclusion, the authors stress the need for continuous research, education, and innovation in order for public administration to successfully adapt to the challenges of the 21st century and remain a reliable service to citizens in a democratic society.
Dear academic and professional community, dear readers, We have the honor and pleasure to present you the new, first in 2025, issue of the journal “Administration“, a scientific journal of administration and administrative law. The journal “Administration“ in continues since 2010, publishing scientific and professional papers and analysis from various domains of government and administrative law. In the issue, wich in front of you, the following papers have been published: EVOLUTION OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AS A SCIENTIFIC DISCIPLINE: FROM INITIAL POSITIONING TO DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION (Rijad Delić, Emir Mehmedović); ADMINISTRATIVE CONTRACT AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR AN ADMINISTRATIVE ACT IN THE RESOLUTION OF ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS (Merima Tanović, Amra Jašarbegović, Aldin Jelovac); CREATION OF BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT IN LOCAL SELF–GOVERNMENTS IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA (Admir Vranić); THE ROLE OF ADMINISTRATIVE BODIES IN THE SYISTEM OF DEMOCRATIC CONTROL OF MODERN ARMED FORCES, WITH EMPHASIS ON THE ARMED FORCES OF BOSNIA AND HERCEGOVINA (Rusmir Musa). Topics represent an important segment in the understanding, knowledge and insights that are of scientific and wider social importance. The thematic units covered by this issue of the journal are a combination of different approaches to public administration and all other aspects that are more or less related to administration. We thank, once again, our authors, readers, editorial staff, governing bodies of the Faculty of Administration and the University of Sarajevo, representatives of scientific bases in which the journal is indexed and all those who have contributed to the development of the journal in recent years. On behalf of the Editors of the Journal, the best regards and recommendations for this issue. Ermin Kuka, PhD Editor in Chief
Political Conceptions of the Solution of the State-Legal Status of Bosnia and Herzegovina During the First World War
The major global geopolitical processes that took place on the world political scene during the twentieth century did not pass by Bosnia and Herzegovina, which, due to its importance, was often the target of Serbian and Croatian large-state policies that sought to annex it. The fact that even some Muslims fell under their influence shows how pronounced these projects were. Accordingly, it is especially important to thematize the period of the First World War, as a time when the epilogue of the future state-legal system of Bosnia and Herzegovina was quite unclear. The administrative conceptions foreseen for Bosnia and Herzegovina were lined up one after another from the neighborhood, but there were also those devised among the domestic political elite, which indicates the complexity of the issue of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the latter period. In this paper, we deal with different conceptions in the context of the solution of the state-legal status of Bosnia and Herzegovina during the First World War. The main assumption is that the political destiny of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the mentioned period was determined by external circumstances and the situation on the war front, and that Bosnia and Herzegovina did not wonder too much about its destiny. According to the context, we will chronologically analyze different state-legal concepts, and how they are accepted within Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Aspects of Improving Human Resource Management and the Quality of Service Provision in Therapeutic Communities in Bosnia And Herzegovina
The market position of business organizations today, in addition to quality requirements, is also defined by the increasingly expressed demands of interested parties to demonstrate the ability to effectively and responsibly manage business in the segment of occupational health and safety protection. Responding to such market demands, organizations increasingly decide to establish a health and safety management system at work, which should ensure the elimination or reduction of health and safety risks for all In the last twenty years, a new concept of weaning drug addicts (psychoactive substances) has appeared in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which is carried out in therapeutic communities, and which offers a different approach and treatment program by means of which users can more effectively establish long-term abstinence as the primary or final goal in the fight against. Therapeutic communities as an innovative form of weaning in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and in the world, are still not a sufficient subject of research, especially when it comes to human resources, standards, and other parameters that would help us to have a better insight into the statistical data on the number of cured persons or even. This article aims to show some of the possible solutions when it comes to improving services and managing human resources, to achieve the best possible results in the implementation of the treatment itself, referring to current scientific trends in this field.
New Institutes in the Field of Free Access to Information in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Proactive Publication, Limitation of Access and The Principle of Freedom
The authors analyze the new legal institutes in the field of free access to information that were introduced into the legal system of Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2023, with the adoption of the Law on Freedom of Access to Information at the Institutional Level of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The subject of the analysis are, first of all, the institute of proactive publication of information and the establishment of the Central Portal of Public Information, the institute of legal and institutional restrictions on access to information, as well as the principle of free access to information. The goal of this paper is to achieve as complete and comprehensive an understanding of the relevant legal institutes as possible, which are, in a certain part or even completely, novel in the positive legal framework related to freedom of access to information. The motives and reasons for which parties submit requests for access to information can be of different nature. The parties in the information access procedure are ordinary citizens, business entities, lawyers and other persons who request access to information for personal or other reasons. Regardless of the motive and reason for which the parties request information from public authorities and regardless of who is a party to the proceedings, the duty and obligation of the administrative body or institution of Bosnia and Herzegovina (public body) is to grant and provide access to the requested information, unless the law foresees restrictions on access to information, as this promotes transparency and accountability of public authorities. The new institutes define a more productive role of the administrative body, the cases of restrictions on access to information are more precisely prescribed.
Management of the Service Improvement System in Public Utilities in Bosnia and Herzegovina
The business of public utilities in the present has become unimaginable without the represented aspect of relations with the public. The main goal of this paper is to show how successful public relations contribute to better management of the service improvement system in public utility companies in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In addition, the aim is to analyze the importance of managing the policy of improving the efficiency of water supply, and wastewater treatment and the importance of communication strategy. The paper investigates the mechanisms that influence the communication strategy on determining the communication goals that public companies in Bosnia and Herzegovina have to achieve to communicate with the public. The work explores key communication messages, target groups, and communication channels. The paper indicated that the key skills and strategies for improving communication, building strong public relations and effective advocacy in a public water and utility company is knowing the psychographic and behavioral characteristics of the target group to adapt messages. Also, it was shown that strategic communication in the field of water supply and wastewater treatment greatly helps in understanding the broader picture of the performance of public water and utility companies. It was emphasized how important it is to create a communication strategy and action plans, especially when it comes to key points, goals, messages, and roles in the company. Also, it was pointed out that it is very important to understand the concepts, tools, techniques, and materials for public relations (statements, press releases, invitations, media briefs, interviews) as well as the basic requirements for a successful appearance in public.
The Influences of Social Scientific Disciplines on the Interdisciplinarity of Public Administration Science
Public administration is a dynamic discipline that has evolved throughout history under the influence of various scientific fields, primarily social sciences. Its roots trace back to ancient civilizations, and it has significantly developed over centuries. As a scientific discipline and a complex social phenomenon, public administration encompasses sociological, political, legal, organizational, and other characteristics. The emergence and functioning of public administration as a crucial state instrument for law enforcement and ensuring social stability have been significantly influenced by numerous scientific disciplines, particularly political science, law, sociology, economics, and psychology. These disciplines provided the initial impetus and later momentum for the development of specific public administration concepts. Key theoretical approaches to studying public administration emphasize the importance of organizational structures and functionality within social systems. Understanding the historical and theoretical foundations of administration is essential for addressing contemporary challenges and opportunities in public administration. The aim of this paper is to highlight the influences of some key social and technological disciplines on the development of public administration, focusing on understanding how historical changes have shaped modern practices.
Dear academic and professional community, dear readers, We have the honor and pleasure to present you the new, second in 2024, issue of the journal “Administration“, a scientific journal of administration and administrative law. The journal “Administration“ in continues since 2010, publishing scientific and professional papers and analysis from various domains of government and administrative law. In the issue, wich in front of you, the following papers have been published: THE INFLUENCES OF SOCIAL SCIENTIFIC DISCIPLINES ON THE INTERDISCIPLINARITY OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION SCIENCE (Rijad Delić, Emir Mehmedović); MANAGEMENT OF THE SERVICE IMPROVEMENT SYSTEM IN PUBLIC UTILITIES IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA (Hazim Okanović); NEW INSTITUTES IN THE FIELD OF FREE ACCESS TO INFORMATION IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA: PROACTIVE PUBLICATION, LIMITATION OF ACCESS AND THE PRINCIPLE OF FREEDOM (Mirela Pelidija, Bojan Vuković); ASPECTS OF IMPROVING HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AND THE QUALITY OF SERVICE PROVISION IN THERAPEUTIC COMMUNITIES IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA (Sinan Letuka); POLITICAL CONCEPTIONS OF THE SOLUTION OF THE STATE-LEGAL STATUS OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA DURING THE FIRST WORLD WAR (Admir Lisica). Topics represent an important segment in the understanding, knowledge and insights that are of scientific and wider social importance. The thematic units covered by this issue of the journal are a combination of different approaches to public administration and all other aspects that are more or less related to administration. In the period after the publication of the journal number 2/2023, Editorial Board is to increase the visibility of the journal “Administration“ in the new international databases. We thank, once again, our authors, readers, editorial staff, governing bodies of the Faculty of Administration and the University of Sarajevo, representatives of scientific bases in which the journal is indexed and all those who have contributed to the development of the journal in recent years. On behalf of the Editors of the Journal, the best regards and recommendations for this issue. Ermin Kuka, PhD Editor in Chief
Management of the Occupational Health and Safety System in Public Enterprises According to ISO 45001
The market position of business organizations today, in addition to quality requirements, is also defined by the increasingly expressed demands of interested parties to demonstrate the ability to effectively and responsibly manage business in the segment of occupational health and safety protection. Responding to such market demands, organizations increasingly decide to establish a health and safety management system at work, which should ensure the elimination or reduction of health and safety risks for all persons in the work environment under the organization’s supervision. The ISO 45001 standard provides a structured, preventive approach to health and safety management, which includes the definition of policies and goals in accordance with current legislation, the implementation of all activities in a safe manner, and effective communication as a prerequisite for a safe working environment. By establishing and implementing such a system, public companies in Bosnia and Herzegovina ensure compliance with the health and safety policy, as well as continuous improvement of the system, which will eventually be recognized by both interested parties and the public as a whole.
Importance of Research and Development for Economic Growth
In economic terms research, development, and innovation encompasses the development and application of scientific and technological achievements that improve products and services or production processes, as well as the organizational conditions in which they are produced. These achievements increase productivity, and thus affect economic growth and development. Lately, innovation and information technology have become an important instrument for advancing and meeting the needs of public interest. Some country’s achievements and potentials in this area are directly related to financial investments, the number of researchers, the results and quality of research, research infrastructure and so on. The most developed countries, such as the US, Japan and China, are also the most innovative, their allocations for research and development lead over the world. Knowledge-based economies prevail in those countries, with significant allocation by business sector in research and development. Although it lags slightly behind, European Union also seeks to improve these areas. Conversely, Bosnia and Herzegovina has only allocated 0.2% of gross domestic product for research and development over the last five years. The aim of this article is to research and show the trends of these investments in the EU and in selected countries in the world and region, as well as the comparation of other appropriate indicators. Under an analysis of the achievements of earlier research, point to opportunities to improve the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Cultural Policy in the Function of Local Community Development in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Modern social movement imposes need for researching cultural policy, especially from their aspect of their creation and implementation at the local community level. Research conducted so far on development of local government and local policy in Bosnia and Herzegovina were primarily directed on economic and legally – the political aspect of local government. Goal of this research is advantage and possibility analysis, limiting the local growth of cultural politics on the level of territorial organisation of government in Bosnia and Herzegovina. What problems does the government face during creation of cultural policy? How are local and cultural identities formed? Do local governments have strategies for cultural development? In what measure is culture recognised as a developing chance especially in the time when Bosnia and Herzegovina becomes alternative tourist destination? How are cultural projects financed and in what measure do citizens show interest to participate in the growth of culture and local culture politics? By a strategic approach this research is contributing towards the definement of modern model culture policy, it is contributed to a total community growth of local communities.
Determinants of Financial Inclusion in the Western Balkans
The aim of this research is to provide new empirical evidence on the determinants of financial inclusion in the selected Western Balkan economies using a panel data method between 2004 and 2021. This research covered six Western Balkans countries based on the data that was available. The results highlight the significance of income, quality of legal system, number of internet users, and decline of unemployment rate in promotion of financial inclusion across the Western Balkan countries. In conclusion, the study reveals that building a financially inclusive society in the Western Balkans would require reducing unemployment, increasing income and improving ITC communication infrastructure, and improving the legal system. Likewise, it is indicated that policy makers should adopt more modifications and changes in existing economic policies in order to achieve a higher level of financial inclusion.
We have the honor and pleasure to present you the new, first in 2024, issue of the journal “Administration“, a scientific journal of administration and administrative law. The journal “Administration“ in continues since 2010, publishing scientific and professional papers and analysis from various domains of government and administrative law. In the issue, wich in front of you, the following papers have been published: DETERMINANTS OF FINANCIAL INCLUSION IN THE WESTERN BALKANS (Đevad Šašić, Adis Ćesić, Almin Bašić); CULTURAL POLICY IN THE FUNCTION OF LOCAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA (Emir Tahirović, Elmir Sadiković, Ermin Kuka, Đevad Šašić); IMPORTANCE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH (Merdža Handalić Plahonjić); MANAGEMENT OF THE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY SYSTEM IN PUBLIC ENTERPRISES ACCORDING TO ISO 45001 (Sinan Letuka). Topics represent an important segment in the understanding, knowledge and insights that are of scientific and wider social importance. The thematic units covered by this issue of the journal are a combination of different approaches to public administration and all other aspects that are more or less related to administration. In the period after the publication of the journal number 2/2023, Editorial Board is to increase the visibility of the journal “Administration“ in the new international databases. In addition to thanking the Editorial Board for these successes, we would like to express our special gratitude to all the authors and contributors who have give and will continue to make a great contribution to increasing the visibility of the journal. In the meantime, the journal has been indexed in the ASCI Database. We thank, once again, our authors, readers, editorial staff, governing bodies of the Faculty of Administration and the University of Sarajevo, representatives of scientific bases in which the journal is indexed and all those who have contributed to the development of the journal in recent years. On behalf of the Editors of the Journal, the best regards and recommendations for this issue. Ermin Kuka, PhD Editor in Chief
The Reform Process of Introducing the Licensing of Primary and Secondary School Principals
To improve the quality of pre-university education in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is necessary to start a reform process aimed at increasing the competence of school principals. In accordance with the practice implemented in most countries of the region and many countries of the European Union, it is necessary to introduce the licensing of principals of primary and secondary schools. The paper provides a brief overview of the names of the modules in the training programs and the duration of the training after which school principals are licensed in the countries of the region, as well as the activities carried out in Bosnia and Herzegovina that preceded the introduction of principal licensing in the field of primary and secondary education. It is stated in the paper that the current regulatory changes should enable the licensing of principals of primary and secondary schools. Recommendations were given for adopting the occupational standards of school principals, as well as all the other steps that need to be taken. By implementing the process of licensing for school principals, the state would receive a significant resource of highly educated staff who have acquired competencies through an interdisciplinary training program for the management of primary and secondary schools.
The Role of State and Other Bodies in Financial Investigations of Criminal Offenses
Financial investigations are conducted with the aim of determining and uncovering corrupt criminal acts, as well as securing and confiscating the proceeds of the criminal act. In this way, state institutions with their entities and bodies represent an effective instrument in the fight against property-motivated crimes. For this reason, an attack on property, which was achieved in an illegal way, is considered the heaviest blow for perpetrators of serious crimes, and tools aimed at confiscating property benefits are assessed as the best way to combat organized crime. Illegally acquired property benefits from various criminal acts are, in most cases, concealed. Conducting financial investigations by competent authorities should meet certain requirements. Professional relationship and highly professional work are the key features of financial investigations. In this regard, the prosecutor is the leading person and coordinator, who has the most extensive task in terms of managing the financial investigation. The prosecutor engages numerous state authorities and financial experts in order to collect relevant data and information, and in the function of documenting illegally acquired property benefits. In this context, it is necessary to elaborate on the role and importance of criminal process subjects and state authorities in the procedures of conducting financial investigations in the case of confiscation of illegally acquired property benefits.