Glas Srpske: A History of the Republika Srpska Newspaper
The landscape of media in the Republika Srpska region is anchored by Glas Srpske, a publication with roots stretching back to the tumultuous years of World War II. From its beginnings as a wartime bulletin to its current status as a private newspaper, the publication has mirrored the political and social shifts of the region for over eight decades.
Origins in the People's Liberation Movement
The publication first appeared on July 31, 1943, under the name Glas. At its inception, it served as a bulletin for the People's Liberation Movement—a resistance effort during World War II in Yugoslavia—specifically within the Krajina region. The very first issue was published in the village of Župica.
The original editorial team consisted of a dedicated group of individuals: Skender Kulenović, Ilija Došen, Đuro Pucar, Rada Vranješević, Vilko Vinterhalter, Osman Karabegović, and Boško Šiljegović. According to records by Osman Karabegović, the editorial office and the printing press were relocated to Ribnik in August 1943 to maintain operations.
Evolution of Name and Format
Following the war, the publication underwent several identity changes. For a period, it operated under the title Banjalučke novine before reverting to the name Glas in 1963. For two decades, from 1963 until 1983, it functioned as a daily newspaper, providing consistent coverage to its readership.
Cultural Contributions and Comics
Beyond hard news, the paper became a vehicle for local art and literature. Between 1973 and 2007, it published the daily comic David Štrbac. Created by Miro Mlađenović (1949–2007), the comic was heavily inspired by the literary works of Petar Kočić, blending regional culture with visual storytelling.
Modern Era and Privatization
In 2003, the publication adopted its current name, Glas Srpske. Today, it operates as a private newspaper serving the Republika Srpska entity.
Key Facts
- Founded: July 31, 1943, in Župica.
- Original Purpose: Bulletin for the People's Liberation Movement in the Krajina region.
- Name Changes: Transitioned from Glas to Banjalučke novine, back to Glas, and finally to Glas Srpske in 2003.
- Daily Status: Operated as a daily newspaper between 1963 and 1983.
- Notable Feature: Published the David Štrbac comic by Miro Mlađenović for 34 years.
| Year/Period | Publication Name | Status/Key Event |
|---|---|---|
| 1943 | Glas | Founded as a wartime bulletin in Župica |
| Post-WWII | Banjalučke novine | Name change period |
| 1963 – 1983 | Glas | Operated as a daily newspaper |
| 1973 – 2007 | Glas / Glas Srpske | Publication of David Štrbac comics |
| 2003 – Present | Glas Srpske | Private newspaper in Republika Srpska |
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Glas Srpske first established?
The publication was first issued as Glas on July 31, 1943, in the village of Župica.
Who were the original editors of the publication?
The first editorial office included Skender Kulenović, Ilija Došen, Đuro Pucar, Rada Vranješević, Vilko Vinterhalter, Osman Karabegović, and Boško Šiljegović.
What was the David Štrbac comic?
It was a daily comic created by Miro Mlađenović and published in the newspaper from 1973 to 2007, drawing inspiration from the works of Petar Kočić.
Has the newspaper always been called Glas Srpske?
No. It began as Glas, was later known as Banjalučke novine, returned to Glas in 1963, and finally became Glas Srpske in 2003.
Is Glas Srpske a state-owned publication?
No, since 2003, it has been a private newspaper in Republika Srpska.