A new store boycott in Bosnia and Herzegovina over high prices has been announced for Friday, Feb. 14, with citizens urged to refrain from any spending, organizers said.
This will mark the third consecutive Friday of consumer protests, with organizers calling on the public to rationalize spending on other days, avoid purchasing perishable goods, and refrain from buying items with the highest price increases. On boycott days, participants are encouraged to limit shopping to essential groceries or abstain from shopping entirely, FENA news agency reported.
The informal citizen group “BOJkot.ba,” which launched the campaign on social media, said Friday was chosen again as it is widely recognized as the main day of protest.
In response to suggestions for extending the boycott to multiple days, the group said such a move would put too much pressure on those still adjusting to the initiative.
“We do not want people who, due to their jobs, lifestyles, illnesses, or age, shop in a specific way to abandon the process. Overambition could lead to the initiative’s collapse,” the group wrote on its Facebook page, adding that they support individuals who choose to extend the boycott beyond one day.
The initiative has also received backing from Ferida Kulović, president of the Consumer Association “Potrošač” in Kakanj, who said the boycott has already yielded some positive results.
According to Kulović, the protest has prompted reactions from both authorities and retailers.
“Retailers are now more cautious about raising prices, so I believe the campaign has been successful so far,” she said, citing a government initiative to reduce and cap prices, new discount campaigns in some stores, and increased inspections and price controls.
“For now, a one-day boycott is sufficient. It has drawn attention to consumers, and we are already seeing some positive changes,” Kulović added.
