Author ORCID Identifier
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7027-4451
Abstract
In Bosnia and Herzegovina, national and religious identities have traditionally been deeply connected, serving as key markers of group belonging and boundaries between communities. Among the three main groups — Bosniaks, Croats, and Serbs — religious affiliation often functions not only as a matter of personal belief but also as a symbolic affirmation of national identity. This study explores the relationship between various measures of religiosity and attitudes toward members of other nations and religions, with particular focus on differences among the three communities. The results confirm that religion remains an important marker of national identity across all three groups. At the same time, the findings indicate a growing similarity in religiosity patterns among Bosniaks, Croats, and Serbs, suggesting that despite strong symbolic ties between religion and nation, broader social and cultural trends are leading to more similar expressions of religious practice. Additionally, the connection between religiosity and intergroup trust is more complex than might be assumed. Two indicators of religiosity show no significant association with trust toward members of other nations and religions, whereas one indicator is even positively associated with such trust. These results challenge the common belief that higher religiosity correlates with greater social distance. Instead, they suggest that, in the post-conflict setting of Bosnia and Herzegovina, religion may serve both as a symbolic boundary marker of national belonging and as a resource for tolerance and social trust. The findings also underscore the importance of distinguishing among the various dimensions of religiosity, as their social effects can vary significantly.
Recommended Citation
Pavić, Željko
(2026)
"Conflict and Resilience: Unraveling the Connection Between Religiosity and Interethnic and Interconfessional Trust in Bosnia and Herzegovina,"
Occasional Papers on Religion in Eastern Europe: Vol. 46
:
Iss.
4
, Article 2.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.55221/2693-2229.2794
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/ree/vol46/iss4/2