The academic and intellectual community in Bosnia and Herzegovina is in mourning following the death of Slavo Kukić, a renowned sociologist and academic. Slavo Kukić, who was born in 1954 in Vinjani, Posušje, succumbed to his illness after a prolonged battle with cancer.

Kukić's educational journey began at the Faculty of Political Sciences in Sarajevo, where he earned his degree in political science in February 1977. He continued his academic pursuit with a master's degree in social sciences from an interdisciplinary postgraduate program at the University of Sarajevo in 1983, culminating in a PhD in sociology from the Faculty of Political Sciences in November 1986.

Starting his career in 1977 as an expert associate in SO-e Posušje, Kukić quickly moved to become the head of the Marxist Center. In 1980, he transitioned to education, teaching and eventually directing at the Secondary School Center in Posušje. By 1987, he had been elected president of the Executive Committee of SO-e Posušje. His career in higher education took a significant turn in 1992 when he joined the Faculty of Economics in Mostar, where he worked until his retirement in 2018.

Kukić held the positions of assistant professor in 1987, associate professor in 1997, and full professor in 1999. His dedication to education was evident through his extensive teaching portfolio, which included courses in sociology, methodology, consumer behavior, and related disciplines at numerous universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region, including the University of Mostar, the University of Tuzla, and the University of Sarajevo, among others.

His academic contributions were not confined to teaching alone. Kukić was a prolific writer, authoring or co-authoring 35 books and studies, including nine university textbooks and three secondary school textbooks. He contributed to twelve projects in sociology, political science, and economics, notably working on the Early Warning System in Bosnia and Herzegovina for five continuous years. Additionally, Kukić published over 160 scientific and professional papers in journals and collections in multiple languages, supplemented by around 90 reviews.

His editorial influence was widespread, as he served on the editorial and advisory boards of various journals, including the Journal of Economy and Business (Mostar), Sociological Discourse (Banja Luka), and Transition (Tuzla). Kukić mentored numerous doctoral and master's theses, significantly impacting the academic landscape.

Beyond academia, Kukić was deeply involved in Bosnia and Herzegovina's social and NGO sectors. His roles included the presidency of the Management Board of the Center for Minority Rights Protection, membership in the Management Board of the Center for Euro-Atlantic Integrations, and the Center for the Advancement of Human Rights and Democracy. He was also a member of the Helsinki Committee of Bosnia and Herzegovina. In 2011, he was a candidate for the head of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Kukić's influence extended to public broadcasting; he was at the helm of the Federal RTV from 2000 to 2009, during which time the broadcaster became known for its distinct programming. His contributions were recognized by his election as a corresponding member of the Academy of Sciences and Arts of Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2012 and as a regular member in 2018.

The Prime Minister of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Nermin Nikšić, and the leader of the SDP, expressed his condolences, acknowledging Kukić's unwavering will and efforts despite his battle with illness.

In his professional and societal engagements, Kukić also worked as an expert for the European Commission, addressing issues of local government development in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Georgia over the past fifteen years.

Many media outlets, academic forums, and public figures have paid tribute to Kukić, highlighting his steadfast belief in the future of a European Bosnia and Herzegovina, characterized by peace and coexistence. The academic community remembers him not only for his intellectual contributions but also for his personal commitment to human rights and democracy.

With profound sadness, we remember Slavo Kukić, a distinguished academician whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.