In a move that has ignited national debate, the city of Orašje in Bosnia and Herzegovina has become the first to officially challenge the Federation’s controversial non-working Sunday law, which mandates retail closures to provide workers with a day of rest.
The city council, citing significant economic concerns, has voted to petition the federal Ministry of Trade for an exemption.
Mayor Marijan Oršolić warned that the law could devastate Orašje’s economy, driving consumers to nearby regions such as Republika Srpska and Croatia, where shops remain open, and causing substantial financial losses for local businesses. “This law doesn’t just hurt businesses—it undermines the city’s economic stability,” Oršolić stated.
The law has divided the local community. Many residents view it as a step toward preserving family values and improving worker rights, but critics argue that it unfairly penalizes businesses in border regions. Vice-President Alen Aljukić proposed a compromise, suggesting that workers willing to work on Sundays should receive higher wages, a measure that could balance economic needs with labor rights.
The final decision now lies with the federal Ministry of Trade, but Orašje’s defiance has already raised broader questions about balancing workers’ rights with the economic realities of small communities. As Bosnia and Herzegovina grapples with economic pressures, Orašje’s challenge could set a precedent for other towns facing similar dilemmas.
