Emigration: A demographic problem or a threat to economy?

Bosnia and Herzegovina has joined its neighbours Serbia, Croatia, and North Macedonia in a long term population decline. In just three years, deaths have outnumbered births in Bosnia by nearly 30,000. It is a country of about three million people. But the data reveals a deeper issue. The country isn’t just ageing, it’s steadily emptying. In this episode, Across The Balkans examines if emigration has become not just a demographic issue, but a threat to the country’s long term economic survival and speaks with economic analyst Admir Cavalic. In North Macedonia, a student protest is quickly turning into a wider political storm. Albanian law students are demanding the right to take their exams in their native language, arguing that this is already guaranteed by law. While the government calls for patience and promises a legal solution, institutions remain divided, fueling accusations of discrimination and political obstruction. What began as a student demand is evolving into a broader test of equality, representation and interethnic relations in the country. A new generation of artists is taking to the streets of Sarajevo and Pristina to create their unique murals and graffiti. It’s a way for them to build bridges and reinvent narratives for the structures and places that have become their canvases. Across The Balkans, hosted by Nadja Muftic, is TRT World's programme focusing on the issues and fault lines shaping Southeast Europe today.