Bosnia and Herzegovina's Commitment to Sustainable Development: Progress, Challenges, and the Path Forward

The adoption of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda in 2015 marked a critical turning point for the nation, as it embraced the goals of achieving prosperity for its people and preserving the planet. Despite facing a complex political landscape, BiH presented its second Voluntary National Review (VNR) at the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) in New York this year, showcasing its progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

A Vision for Sustainable Development:

In 2021, the Council of Ministers formally endorsed the "Sustainable Development Goals Framework," marking a significant milestone for BiH. This framework represents the country's first nationwide vision for sustainable development in over a decade. It also established the pioneering inter-ministerial SDG Council, underlining BiH's unwavering commitment to inclusive, sustainable development.

Navigating Global Challenges:

Despite facing global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the conflict in Ukraine, and historic inflation levels, the SDG Framework provides a clear roadmap. It ensures that BiH leaves no one behind in its strategic planning and investments across its regions: Republika Srpska, the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Brčko District. Moreover, it aligns with BiH's aspirations of joining the European Union and its long-term socio-economic vision, addressing critical transitions in governance, the economy, and the environment.

Inclusion Amidst Challenges:

One of the remarkable aspects of BiH's journey is its commitment to inclusion. Despite political divisions, the SDGs have served as a platform for engaging a wide range of stakeholders, including the private sector, civil society, citizens, and academia. A testament to this inclusivity was the consultation of over 45 civil society organizations, particularly those working with vulnerable groups, in the development of the VNR. These consultations spanned Sarajevo, Brčko District, Banja Luka, Tuzla, and Mostar in March 2023. The SDGs fundamentally represent the right to development, encompassing economic, social, civil, cultural, and political rights to ensure that no one is left behind in the modernization and transformation of society.

Empowering the Private Sector:

BiH recognizes the role of the private sector in promoting sustainable development. It introduced the SDGs Business Pioneers Award five years ago, acknowledging private sector excellence in this pursuit. In 2023, 114 companies vied for this award, showcasing their contributions to creating decent jobs, reducing environmental impact, and championing sustainable business practices. These efforts extend to areas such as circular economy, digitalization, and decarbonization, driving the nation toward a more sustainable future.

Regional Cooperation:

BiH is actively promoting regional cooperation through initiatives like the mid-term evaluation of SDG progress in the EU Adriatic-Ionian macro-region, annual meetings of Western Balkan experts, involvement in the Central European Initiative, and active participation in the Regional Forum on Sustainable Development in Geneva.

Addressing Financial Challenges:

Challenges remain, particularly concerning the availability of public funds for the 2030 Agenda's implementation. To accelerate progress, an intergovernmental working group was established, tasked with recommending alternative resources and innovative financing methods. The United Nations Joint SDG Fund supports this effort, as evidenced by the drafting of a Strategic Financing Framework for Agenda 2030 in late 2020. This framework aims to optimize public fund allocation, bridge the SDG financing gap, and explore innovative financing instruments through collaboration with finance ministries, entities, and experts at both national and international levels.

United Nations Support:

United Nations is immensely proud of BiH's achievements regarding the presentation of the second VNR. To celebrate these accomplishments, the UN has organized a conference on the 6th of September that serves as a platform to showcase BiH's progress towards sustainable development, emphasizing its dedication to the SDGs.

The United Nations in BiH plays a vital role in supporting BiH's efforts to implement the SDG Framework and advance the 2030 Agenda. The UN team has convened stakeholders, the international community, and local counterparts across the country, both in-person and online. This collaborative approach has provided expertise, insights, and valuable lessons.

In conclusion, Bosnia and Herzegovina is firmly committed to accelerating progress towards sustainable development. It seeks to share experiences and collaborate with partners, both domestically and internationally, to create added value and make a significant impact on the global SDG agenda. The time for informed choices and concerted efforts is now, as BiH strives to shape a more sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future for all its citizens.