Ginex Workers’ Demands Temporarily Met: Production Resumes in Gorazde
The Supervisory Board of UNIS “Ginex” has approved a temporary wage increase after workers halted production, marking a short-term resolution to the labor dispute in Bosnia’s key defense manufacturer.
Production at UNIS “Ginex” d.d. Gorazde — one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most important defense industry manufacturers — has resumed after the company’s Supervisory Board approved a temporary wage increase, meeting workers’ demands for the time being.
Following a complete production stoppage earlier today, workers gathered in front of the company’s headquarters demanding higher wages. After several hours of negotiations, they were informed that the Supervisory Board had accepted the management’s proposal to raise hourly pay to 6.15 KM for a period of six months.
During this timeframe, the company will assess the financial impact of the increase and engage in new negotiations regarding a long-term solution.
UNIS “Ginex” is a Gorazde-based defense manufacturer specializing in the production of chemicals, igniting, and initiating means. Founded in 1951, it is a globally recognized exporter, with more than 70% of its production going to over 40 countries worldwide.
The company’s current management consists of Director Dzenana Turkovic, Executive Director for Economics, Marketing, and Commercial Affairs Demir Imamovic, and Executive Director Edin Cesko.
While the temporary agreement has defused tensions and allowed production to resume, many see the measure as a short-term fix rather than a sustainable solution.
According to several Ginex employees we spoke with, the approved hourly rate of 6.15 KM remains low given the risk, precision, and responsibility required for work involving explosive and initiating materials.
“We appreciate that the management reacted and raised the rate, but this is only temporary. For the type of work we do and the profits the company makes from exports, a fair rate would be at least 7 to 8 KM per hour, plus bonuses,” said one of the Ginex workers.
Employees stressed that anything below that level makes it difficult to retain qualified staff and maintain motivation, warning that long-term stability of one of Bosnia’s key defense producers depends on a more permanent and fair solution.
