The Government of Bosnia’s Republika Srpska (RS) has decided to implement a differentiated minimum wage system this year, based on employees' qualifications. This new structure establishes varying minimum wage levels, depending on education and professional training.

Unqualified workers will continue to receive the lowest minimum wage of 900 Bosnian marks (€460). For qualified workers, such as those with a three-year secondary school education, the minimum wage will be set at 950 marks (€485).

Employees with a four-year secondary school diploma will be guaranteed a minimum wage of 1,000 marks (€510). Meanwhile, those with higher education will receive at least 1,300 marks (€665).

This wage system applies solely to employees in the private sector. Salaries for public sector workers, including government employees, will continue to be calculated in line with the law on salaries.

Danijel Egic, Minister of Labour, shared these details following a special session of the RS Government. The decision comes after social partners, including trade unions, employers, and the RS Government, failed to reach an agreement during Saturday's meeting of the Economic-Social Council of Republika Srpska.

“This new policy aims to align wages with employees’ qualifications and ensure fair compensation within the private sector,” Minister Egic stated.

The RS Government's move reflects its intention to balance the wage system and respond to demands from various stakeholders, even amid disagreements during negotiations.