The End of an Era: Steel Workers Protest Closure of Bosnia's Last Mill

Workers in Zenica, Bosnia protested the shutdown of the country's last steel mill, a closure risking thousands of jobs and marking the end of heavy industry in the region. The Pavgord Group blamed logistical issues and cheap imports for the closure. Government intervention is being considered.

In a significant demonstration, hundreds of workers marched through the central city of Zenica, Bosnia, on Friday in protest against the closure of the nation's last steel mill. The shutdown, occurring last week, marks the end of heavy industry in the region, putting thousands of jobs at risk.

Demonstrators, including Avdija Halilović, expressed deep concern over the factory's closure, lamenting the loss of an institution integral to Zenica's identity. The mill, bought by Bosnia's Pavgord Group from ArcelorMittal, was closed citing logistical challenges and competition from cheaper imported steel.

On the regional government front, Prime Minister Nermin Niksic announced interest in taking over the plant to resume operations. Simultaneously, the bankruptcy filing by Nova Ljubija iron ore mines, affecting 600 workers, amplified the urgency for a resolution.