MILUNOVIĆ: CENSUS IN BiH IS POLITICAL ISSUE

BANJA LUKA, OCTOBER 31 /SRNA/ - Republika Srpska Institute of Statistics Director Darko Milunović told SRNA that the population census in BiH was a political issue, whereas in all other countries it was exclusively a statistical matter.

Milunović said that the last census was conducted in 2013 and that the next one could be expected within the next decade. "The answer to this question depends on other factors over which we, as one of the three key statistical institutions in BiH, have no influence," Milunović said in a podcast produced by the Media System of Republika Srpska – SRNA. He said that a population census is the most extensive activity carried out by a statistical institution in the territory of the country it covers, but it can also be either the easiest or the most difficult task, depending on the circumstances. BiH HAS GONE ALMOST SEVEN DECADES WITHOUT AGRICULTURAL CENSUS Regarding the agricultural census, Milunović pointed out that BiH has not conducted one since 1960 and that it was supposed to take place in the fourth quarter of this year but had been postponed. "All countries in the region have conducted an agricultural census at least once, and some more than once. We have not had one for some 66 or 67 years. This census is the basis for all agricultural policies," Milunović stressed. He expects progress to be made on this issue as well, since the statistical institutions have completed preparations. "We are ready for the agricultural census; only administrative matters at the level of the Council of Ministers remain to be resolved. Cooperation among the three statistical institutions in BiH in this area is very good. A whole range of preparatory activities has been completed," Milunović said.