Safety and Freedom for Women in Modern Bosnia

Today, Bosnia is a safe place for women, whether they live alone or travel by themselves. This is a major change compared to just a few years ago. In the past, women could not even walk through the fields or along public roads without fear. Harassment and violence were common, especially under Turkish rule. Now, with peace and better law enforcement, women can move freely throughout the country without danger.

The Great Escape from Turkish Oppression

During the ten years before the Russo-Turkish War, more than 200,000 people fled from Bosnia. They were escaping the cruelty and harsh treatment of the Turkish rulers. These refugees left their homes with nothing but the clothes on their backs and whatever they could carry. Holding their children’s hands, they passed through forests and mountains to reach the Austrian border, where they finally found safety. Ironically, they were not just fleeing from war or enemies, but also from the very officials who were supposed to protect them Sofia Guided Tours.

The Brutality of Turkish Rule

Under Turkish rule, the crimes committed against Bosnians were terrible and widespread. The Turks used violence and fear to control the population, and the scale of their cruelty is difficult to describe. According to an official report by the British consul, between 8,000 and 10,000 people were murdered each year—not by criminals, but by government officials and soldiers.

This type of violence was not limited to Bosnia. It also occurred in Bulgaria, and it continues today in areas like Macedonia and Eastern Rumelia, as long as European powers allow Turkish control over those regions.

The Scheriatschule A Unique Legal Institution

One of the most interesting institutions in Bosnia is the Scheriatschule, a special school where students learn about Islamic, Christian, and Jewish law. This is important because Bosnia’s population includes many different religious groups, and the government works hard to respect everyone’s beliefs.

This school helps train judges and officials to understand and apply the laws of each religion fairly. The Austrian government realized that religious beliefs influence people’s actions more deeply than almost anything else. They understood that good governance must consider religious conscience.

Respect for Religious Freedom and Fair Justice

Because of this understanding, Bosnia allows each person to worship freely and even exempts people from certain laws if those laws conflict with their religious beliefs. To support this system, separate courts have been set up for different ethnic and religious groups. This ensures that every citizen receives justice that aligns with their faith and traditions.

This respect for diversity and religion shows how Bosnia, under Austrian influence, has moved toward a more just and inclusive society.