Invisible Children: The Legal Status of Children Born of Wartime Sexual Violence in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republic of Croatia - Comparative Legal Analysis and Practical Recommendations

Abstract

This handbook examines the legal status of children born of wartime sexual violence in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republic of Croatia through a comparative human rights and legal analysis. It explores the international legal framework protecting the rights of children born of war, analyses relevant national legislation and policies, and highlights significant differences in the level of legal recognition and protection available in the two countries.

While Bosnia and Herzegovina has taken important steps towards recognising children born of wartime sexual violence as a distinct category of civilian victims of war, Croatia has yet to establish a comparable legal framework. The publication argues that this gap raises important human rights concerns and calls attention to Croatia’s responsibility, as a Member State of the European Union, to ensure the protection and recognition of all categories of civilian victims of war.

Combining legal analysis, comparative assessment and practical recommendations, the handbook seeks to contribute to ongoing discussions on conflict-related sexual violence, victim recognition, transitional justice and post-conflict reconstruction. It also highlights the important role of academia, civil society and evidence-based advocacy in advancing research, public awareness and legal reform. By bringing greater visibility to a largely overlooked group, the publication aims to support future policy development and strengthen the protection of the rights of children born of wartime sexual violence.