Pause, Think and Make your Vote heard

As we prepare for tomorrow’s general elections, the United Nations in Bosnia and Herzegovina encourages all to vote and select the candidates that will deliver a greener, better and safer future for all.  As the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said, the choices we make today, or fail to make, could result in further breakdown or a breakthrough to a better future. The choice is ours to make.

I encourage all to use this opportunity to champion topics that unite - rather than divide us. Reimagining the education system, reforming the overburdened health system, repositioning towards 21st Century jobs, promoting cleaner and greener energy and moving towards more socially responsive public budgets so that no one is left behind.

Ladies, women, before you fought for the right to vote. Make sure your voices are heard now.

Young people, I am encouraged by UNICEF’s recent survey which found that over 80% of you plan to vote. Tomorrow, choose the representatives who listen to you and will include you and your priorities in decision-making.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is well-placed to exploit solar, wind and other renewable energy as these technologies are more accessible and affordable than ever before. The transition to a greener economy is a once in a generation opportunity to create new, green jobs; to improve energy efficiency and ensure we no longer breath polluted air. Fostering sustainable, inclusive and socially responsible economic growth is a core responsibility of the institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina. With an estimated 47 percent of young people considering leaving the country, prioritizing socio-economic recovery to address today’s record inflation and soaring energy prices cannot simply be ‘left for later'. The leaders and institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina have no time to lose.

I greet you all with hope that after these elections, Bosnia and Herzegovina will be stronger and more united on its path towards a fairer, greener, more prosperous and inclusive future.