Bosniaks (Muslims) are one of the three peoples in that country, the other two being Serbs and Croats, who are Christians.

But the fatwa, issued ahead of this year's holidays, meant that no Santa Claus, or its local equivalent, Father Frost, can be seen anywhere in the capital city of Sarajevo, including in kindergartens. The situation was the same in previous years.

The Islamic Community said that "there is an attempt to trick Bosniak children with this Christian symbol presented as a neutral character".

However, the city administration of Sarajevo will go ahead with its New Year's program for children, that will also feature Santa Claus, but the event will be organized indoors.