Ustanova

Ustanova is a term used in several South Slavic languages, notably Serbian, Croatian, Bosnian and Montenegrin, to denote a legally established organization that provides public or semi-public services. The word derives from the verb ustanoviti, meaning to establish or found, and signifies an entity created to perform a defined function.

Ustanove can be public, private, or mixed and typically have a formal management structure, a defined mandate, and assets or budget allocated for their operation. They are often non-profit in nature, especially when serving public health, education, culture, social welfare, or research; however, some may engage in commercial activities as part of their mandate.

Common types include zdravstvena ustanova (healthcare facility such as a hospital or clinic), obrazovna ustanova (educational institution such as a school or academy), kulturna ustanova (cultural institution like a theatre or museum), socijalna ustanova (social welfare facility), and naučna ustanova (research institution). Legal status and governance vary by country but generally involve a founding act or statute, registration with competent authorities, and supervision by a ministry or public body. Funding often comes from the state or local government, though private or mixed funding is possible.

In everyday usage, ustanova is contrasted with other terms such as zavod (agency or institute) or organizacija (organization), depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the entity. The concept covers a wide range of facilities and institutions that perform public, cultural, educational, or social tasks.