In the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Dennis Gratz from the Democratic Front wants to shake things up. He’s pushing for a change to the country’s Gambling Act that would send more gambling tax money straight to causes that actually help people.
Redirecting Funds to Social Programs
Here’s how Gratz’s plan breaks down: 60% of the gambling tax still goes to the federal treasury, same as before. But now, 20% would support things like sports, culture, and youth education—basically, stuff that gives back to the community. The last 20%? That goes directly into the Solidarity Fund, which helps people with serious medical conditions who just can’t afford treatment.
Gratz said the Solidarity Fund has been overlooked under the current legislation, arguing that gambling proceeds should serve a broader social purpose. “With these changes, every dollar invested in games of chance will have a purpose and make life more dignified and safer for the most vulnerable among us,” he told Balkan News.
He framed the reform as both a moral and legal obligation of the state to safeguard its citizens. “No seriously ill child or young person should be left to fend for themselves due to lack of funds. This law is a step towards a society in which solidarity is not just a word, but a reality,” Gratz said.
Challenges Ahead
Of course, getting new laws through in Bosnia and Herzegovina isn’t exactly straightforward. The country is split into two entities—the Federation and Republika Srpska—and that setup tends to slow things down and make agreement tricky.
Even so, Gratz’s supporters think this proposal could turn gambling taxes into something more than just a way to fill government coffers. For them, it’s about using that money to actually strengthen the social safety net and bring people together.
Source: Focus GN