Bodyguard services in Bosnia for business travelers and tourists
Consulting a travel advisory website is always a good idea before packing your suitcases and flying or driving to any destination. Do this when you plan on visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina as a tourist or a business traveler. You will discover that the advice given depends on the particular website you consult. For instance, the Dutch Government’s travel advisory states that travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina is very safe, even if there are some risks to consider. The country is not (yet) part of the European Union, but it is surely a part of Europe. The UK Government travel advisory website is slightly more skeptical. It states that there is a higher risk of terrorist attacks on British nationals worldwide, and they consider Bosnia and Herzegovina a country with a higher threat. The last travel advisory we will mention is that of the United States of America. This website states to exercise increased caution when traveling to Bosnia and Herzegovina due to terrorism and land mines. Does this mean you need bodyguard services in Bosnia?
What conclusion should you take? And how can you prepare well for a vacation or business meeting in Bosnia and Herzegovina, often called Bosnia? Discover more about the country’s customs and legislation and any possible personal security risks you may run in this article.
As a professional executive protection company, we will also provide tips for keeping yourself and your travel group safe.
What is Bosnia and Herzegovina about?
Bosnia is a captivating Southeast European nation known for its scenic landscapes, diverse culture, and complex history. The country offers a natural variety of rolling hills, deep valleys, and the rugged Dinaric Alps, drawing people who enjoy adventure activities and those seeking a serene escape.
Cultural diversity
The country is a melting pot of ethnic and cultural diversity. It is home to three main ethnic groups: Bosniaks (mostly Muslim), Serbs (primarily Orthodox Christians), and Croats (mainly Roman Catholics). Each group had different national aspirations and political alliances, which led to a significant conflict and, ultimately, a devastating war that took place from 1992 to 1995.
Recent history
The war was marked by severe ethnic violence, including acts of genocide, ethnic cleansing, and mass atrocities. Throughout the conflict, many civilians suffered from forced displacement, with over two million people becoming refugees and approximately 100,000 people losing their lives. It ended with the Dayton Accords in 1995, which created a complex political structure to maintain peace by dividing the country into two autonomous entities: the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (shared by Bosniaks and Croats) and Republika Srpska (predominantly Serb).
The Bosnian War’s legacy of division and trauma continues to shape the social and political landscape, making it a country where understanding its past is crucial for navigating its present challenges.
The opportunities of today
Today, the Bosnian people are known for their hospitality and warmth. A general atmosphere of tolerance and mutual respect among the different religious groups contributes to the complex social society.
After the war, Bosnia developed an economy categorized as an upper-middle-income economy. However, the people still face economic challenges. Examples include decision-making by a fragmented government, unemployment, and corruption at all levels of society.
Business opportunities exist in tourism, transportation, technology and IT, and natural resources such as timber, coal, iron ore, and bauxite.
Is Bosnia safe?
Bosnia is generally considered safe for tourists and business travelers, but certain risks remain. Crime rates, especially in major cities, can pose challenges in unfamiliar environments. Pickpocketing and petty theft are common, and there are concerns about uncoordinated law enforcement efforts due to the fragmented Bosnian police structure within the country.
Business travelers might also face additional risks related to corruption and complex bureaucracy.
From a holidaymaker’s perspective, the primary concerns are street crime and ensuring personal safety. Understand the local customs and regulations. It is not permitted to film or photograph military and police objects or staff, including airports and border crossings (Bosnian border police). Relationships between same-sex people are legal, but showing your LGBTQI+ identity or positive attitude towards it may be frowned upon.
Despite these challenges, Bosnia offers growing tourism, technology, and agriculture opportunities, attracting investors and entrepreneurs worldwide.
Pointers to stay safe in Bosnia and travel legally
Bosnia has a registration obligation. If you plan to stay more than three days, you must register at a local police station. Will you be staying with family or friends, they are obligated to do it for you. If you have booked a hotel or other holiday accommodation, this company will do it.
Unexploded landmines and other explosives could be a risk when exploring nature, especially in former region of conflict. It is advisable to stay on the main road and only go hiking with someone who knows the area. Camping in the wild is strictly forbidden.
Natural disasters such as avalanches, floods, landslides, mild earthquakes, and air pollution can occur. Always check local weather channels and follow local authorities’ instructions.
More information about bodyguard services in Bosnia
We invite you to contact us with your private security requirements in Bosnia. We can provide travel advice, high value asset protection, family protection, secure transportation and special event security.
Alternatively, we can provide peace of mind with our VIP close protection services. A discreet bodyguard can accompany you on your trip or during an event. Our close protection officers and security chauffeurs are all former government operatives, highly experienced and have been vetted to the highest standard. They all possess additional skills, varying from advanced security driving and counter surveillance to advanced first aid.
Infinite Risks International is based in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. We are the premier personal security and intelligence agency in the world. We provide our high-end security solutions worldwide. We serve clients such as Royal families, diplomats, celebrities, UHNWIs, and business executives. Please contact us for more information about our VIP security services and bodyguard services in Bosnia.
