„Hladni rat“ oko Djeda Mraza / “Cold war“ over Santa Claus

Kultura i politika praznovanja u javnim obrazovnim institucijama u Bosni i Hercegovini / Culture and Policy of Holiday Celebrations in Public Educational Institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Abstract

This paper analyses possibilities for culture and policy of holiday celebration in public educational institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which would not erase individual identities’ of children and would allow for respect and acceptance of diversities. In recent years the presence of “Djed Mraz” (“Santa Claus”) at children’s celebrations in day care centers and schools in Bosnia and Herzegovina has provoked heated discussion mostly related to the religious, secular, atheist or some other symbolism of this character. The case study analyses New Year’s celebration in public daycare institutions “Djeca Sarajeva” (“Children of Sarajevo”). The paper will present the historical development of the character and will offer a case study in order to highlight the main points of dispute and offer potential recommendations and solutions. The underlying idea behind the analysis is that all stakeholders in the educational process need to seriously approach this sensitive issue of religion and beliefs of parents and their children, and at the same time cherish the common national, Bosnian and Herzegovinian identity of their citizens and their individual, particular religious and cultural identities as well.