The population of Yugoslavia, 1948-1991

Area of Science:

• Demographics
• Social Sciences
• Population Studies

Background:

• The sixth post-World War Two population census in Yugoslavia was conducted on March 31, 1991.
• The census occurred under extremely difficult political, economic, and social conditions.
• Simultaneously, censuses of households, apartments, and farms were carried out.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the population of Yugoslavia in 1991.
• To assess the feasibility and reliability of conducting a census under adverse circumstances.
• To provide baseline demographic data for future research and policy.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a nationwide population census on March 31, 1991.
• Employed estimation methods for regions where the census could not be fully implemented (e.g., Kosovo).
• Cited the specific estimation methodology used for incomplete data areas.

Main Results:

• The census was successfully executed in most of Yugoslavia despite significant organizational challenges.
• Population data for Kosovo and some other communes were estimated due to non-participation.
• Initial comparisons with previous census data and estimates suggest the reliability of the collected results.

Conclusions:

• The 1991 Yugoslavian census provides valuable demographic data, albeit with noted estimations.
• The study highlights the resilience of census operations even in turbulent environments.
• The findings support the reliability of the census data for the territories where it was conducted.