Trial opens in Bosnia femicide case that shocked the country

Before the hearing, members of Jahic's family and her friends gathered outside the courthouse wearing T-shirts bearing her photograph and the words "Justice for Aldina", calling for accountability in a case that sparked widespread public outrage over violence against women in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

According to the indictment, prosecutors allege that Kalajdzic had stalked Jahic for months, repeatedly appeared outside her apartment and forced his way inside. They also claim he threatened to kill another former partner between September 2024 and late January 2025.

Prosecutors say that on the day of the killing, Kalajdzic first intercepted Jahic near a bus stop before waiting for her outside the fitness centre where she was training.

Jahic then ran to a nearby hotel restaurant in an attempt to escape and called the police for help. However, according to the indictment, the defendant found her hiding in the building's restroom and fatally shot her in the head before officers arrived.

Kalajdzic has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The trial opened with the reading of the indictment, while members of Jahic's family and friends listened in silence as prosecutors outlined the details of the case.

The killing reignited debate in Bosnia and Herzegovina over the protection of women from gender-based violence, with activists arguing that stronger institutional action is needed to prevent femicide and better protect victims who report threats and stalking.