Young Bosnians Delay Flying the Family Nest

Most young Bosnians do not leave the parental home until well after the age of 30, ascribing this to the difficult economic situation as well as cultural habits.

"The economic situation is tough and my family has a bank loan to repay," 32-year-old Alma from Sarajevo, explained.

"Even if I had a job, it wouldn't make much sense to leave my parents' house and find a new place to rent on my own," she added.

According to data provided by the authorities, around 85 per cent of Bosnians aged 15 to 30 live with their parents, compared to a EU average of 66 per cent.

The same figures are reflected in other countries from the region. In Serbia the figure is 80.5 per cent, in Croatia, 83.8 per cent and in Montenegro, 73 per cent.

Remaining in the parents' home can be seen as the only rational decision in a country which the World Bank says has one of the highest youth unemployment rates in the world, 57.5 per cent.

"Remaining at home even after 30 is quite socially acceptable here," said 26-year-old Alen, from Vitez, in central Bosnia.

"Leaving home late on in life is common in Bosnia, but this cultural tradition should be seen mainly as an answer to a lack of resources and financial hardship," Alen said.

"I would like to leave my parents' house but this is practically impossible, and this is true also for almost all persons I know of my age," he added.

"Almost everybody I know still lives with their families - including me," Admir, a 34-year-old man from Sarajevo, said.

"Although economic considerations are crucial, many also decide to stay on with their families even after they have found a job or married ... especially if they are men," he added.

Rejan Igor Roic, member of the state commission for the...