Nationalization of waqf buildings and land at consolidated waqf in Gradačac in accordance with the Law on nationalization of leased buildings and land of 1958

Abstract

The paper is focusing on nationalization/expropriation of waqf business and residential buildings of Consolidated Waqf of Gradačac after the law on nationalization of leased buildings and land was enacted in 1958. The Consolidated Waqf of Gradačac was deprived of fourteen business and residential leased buildings, i.e., eight business and six residential ones. Not a single waqf business or residential building was exempted from nationalization or left to be used by the Waqf Board. Before nationalization, those waqf properties generated significant income sufficient to cover all expenses of religious life. Such model of nationalization caused huge property and material damages to waqfs. The compensation provided by the law was never paid. Expropriated business and residential buildings had been torn down within subsequent twenty years.