ZHK is the only canton in FBiH to record an increase in birth rate and the number of families with three or more children

(Patria) - The Association of Families with Three or More Children "Families Three Plus", referring to data from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Social Welfare of ZHK and the Federal Bureau of Statistics, announced that there is excellent news for BiH society regarding the birth rate.

"Initiatives to support 'three plus' families are yielding results - the birth rate and the number of families with three or more children are increasing in the West Herzegovina Canton," the Association stated.

All families with three or more children in ZHK are entitled to an unconditional cash benefit of 500 KM for the third and each subsequent child up to the age of 7.



This pro-natalist measure began to be implemented when the initiative of the "Families Three Plus" Association was accepted two years ago, with this canton being among the first to start systemic support for large families.

While all cantons in FBiH record a negative natural increase, ZHK is the only one with a positive natural increase, where, according to data from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Social Welfare of ZHK, an increase in families with three or more children is recorded.

The Ministry of Finance also confirms that investment in large families has yielded results, as more funds have been planned for the aforementioned pro-natalist measure compared to last year, when 910,500 KM was paid out, and 17 million since the introduction of this benefit.



In addition, they expect the number of children to be even higher this year and plan to adjust the budget.

"'Families Three Plus' are proud of their contribution in securing support for large families in ZHK. However, although the amount of this benefit is very significant, it is only paid until the child reaches the age of 7.

Therefore, in the coming period, we want to point out to the authorities that support for these children is very necessary even after the age of 7, i.e., until they reach adulthood, as adopted by the previous two cantons (KS and BPK). Then, this support would certainly have even greater results and become the best example of support for the birth rate in FBiH.



Furthermore, in the Canton of Sarajevo and the Bosniak-Podrinje Canton, where support for large families has been introduced, according to data from the Bureau of Statistics, there is a decline in the birth rate, but significantly less compared to cantons where these measures have not been introduced.

This is a clear indicator that investing in large families yields results, and that all cantons should follow this path, which we hope will happen in the coming period," the Association concludes.