Bosnian truck drivers initiated a nationwide blockade on Monday, bringing the movement of all goods to a standstill. Approximately 600 trucks were parked near customs terminals and border crossings, protesting the government’s perceived inaction on critical issues affecting the transport sector. Passenger traffic has been slowed but not entirely blocked.
Key Takeaways
- Bosnian truck drivers are protesting government inaction on administrative barriers and taxes.
- A key grievance is the European Union’s 90-day cap on driver stays within the bloc.
- The protests, organized by Logistika, represent 47,000 transport sector workers.
Widespread Disruption
The protests, organized by Logistika, a group representing 47,000 workers and 600 companies in the transport sector, commenced after months of unsuccessful negotiations with various levels of Bosnian government. The slogan for the demonstration is "That’s enough," reflecting deep frustration within the industry.
Velimir Peulic, Logistika’s chief coordinator, stated that supply chains across the country have been halted. The organization is demanding that the central government address administrative hurdles and excessive taxes, which they claim threaten the viability of a sector valued at 4.7 billion euros.
EU Regulations and Driver Detentions
A significant point of contention is the European Union’s regulation limiting Bosnian truck drivers to a 90-day stay within the EU out of a 180-day period. This has reportedly led many Bosnian transport companies to re-register in neighboring EU countries like Croatia and Slovenia, and has prompted many drivers to seek employment abroad. Peulic highlighted the detention of 48 Bosnian drivers within the EU for exceeding this limit, despite them performing their professional duties.
Demands for Reform
Beyond the EU cap, the truck drivers are also calling for a refund of excise taxes on fuel and a streamlining of border procedures. They advocate for increased digitalization to reduce bureaucracy and lengthy queues at border crossings.
Government Response and Continued Protests
Bosnia’s Ministry of Communications and Transportation has acknowledged the concerns, stating that efforts are underway to amend certain regulations and procedures, with completion expected by the following month. However, Peulic indicated that negotiations would continue, as would the protests, until satisfactory resolutions are achieved.
