DISCRIMINATION IN THE LETTER OF THE LAW Draft Law on Lifetime Awards for Athletes Neglects Coaches and Violates the Rights of Paralympians!

For Patria Enes Peštek, delegate of the Party of BiH in the House of Peoples of the Parliament of FBiH

The 15th session of the House of Peoples of the Parliament of the Federation of BiH is scheduled for December 9, where, among other points on the agenda, will be the Draft Law on lifetime monthly compensation for distinguished athletes in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

This Law, although it has finally seen the light of day, shows serious shortcomings and discriminatory aspects that cannot be overlooked.

Although the Law was initiated with the aim of recognizing and rewarding distinguished athletes, we cannot shake off the impression that the basic purpose of this law has omitted important aspects, such as adequate recognition of coaches and Paralympians.

First, the Law does not take into account the merits of coaches at all, who are key to the success of every athlete. Without coaches, no medal would be possible. It is clear that coaches are entitled to an award commensurate with their contribution, especially since the existing "Regulation of the Government of the Federation of BiH on determining the criteria for awarding prizes to athletes, sports workers and sports associations from FBiH for achieved top sports results in international competitions" clearly defines that coaches are granted 50 percent of the award that an athlete receives for an won medal.

However, in this law, the coaches of distinguished athletes are completely neglected, which shows extreme injustice and discrimination towards sports workers who have invested immense effort over the years in shaping and directing athletes towards top results.

Furthermore, discrimination against Paralympians is also undeniable.

Although Bosnia and Herzegovina has signed the European Convention on Human Rights, which prohibits any discrimination based on sex, race, language, or other characteristics, this law does exactly that.

BiH Paralympians, who win medals at international competitions, are valued according to a lower coefficient compared to Olympians, which is a direct violation of their rights under the European Convention.

Given that all countries in Europe and our region, Croatia, Montenegro, Serbia, and Slovenia, have respected the equal valorization of medals for Olympians and Paralympians from the beginning, the question arises why BiH lags behind in this regard.

This Law, instead of contributing to the equalization of rights and recognition for distinguished athletes, sports workers, and Paralympians, shows not only disrespect for their effort and dedication but also a clear violation of basic human rights, thus placing the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina on the margins in terms of equality and equal opportunities in sports.