The architect of political power in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Cultures · Published 11 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Born into a political dynasty, Bakir Izetbegović transitioned from architecture to the highest levels of Bosnian governance. As a key figure in the SDA, he navigated complex constitutional reforms and intense ethnic tensions, leaving a legacy marked by both significant leadership and persistent allegations of political monopolization.

After working as an architect and leading the Sarajevo Canton Construction Institute, Bakir Izetbegović began his political career in 2000. The son of Alija Izetbegović, the first president of independent Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bakir was reportedly groomed by his father to become a future leader for the Bosniak people. He earned his degree from the University of Sarajevo in 1981. Before entering politics, he served as the director for the Construction Institute of the Sarajevo Canton.

His rise in politics saw him occupy a seat on the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina for two terms between 2010 and 2018. During this period, he led the Party of Democratic Action (SDA), having succeeded Sulejman Tihić as president in May 2015. His leadership was often defined by high-stakes negotiations, such as the efforts to resolve the Sejdić–Finci issue and discussions regarding constitutional reform involving the EU and various regional leaders. Additionally, he led the Bosnia and Herzegovina Parliamentary Assembly's delegation within the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. Furthermore, he served as a member of the national House of Peoples from 2019 until 2023.

Despite his prominence, Izetbegović's tenure was not without controversy. He has faced accusations of monopolizing the SDA and silencing internal critics to consolidate power. His political career has also been marked by polarizing statements, including comments regarding the status of Croats and Serbs and his support for Turkish military actions in Syria. While he remains a central figure in Bosniak politics, recent election cycles in 2022 and 2026 saw him unsuccessfully contest the presidency, facing rising competition within his own political landscape. In 2011, he was accused of aiding Wahhabis within the country. Additionally, he once suggested that the Republic of Srpska should face war if it attempted to declare independence.

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