Statement on the One-Year Anniversary of the Femicide in Gradačac

The United Nations in Bosnia and Herzegovina is deeply saddened by the recent case of violence with elements of femicide in Šipovo and extend our deepest condolences to the victim's family.

We are alarmed by the frequency of these horrific crimes and the worsening situation of gender-based violence. In 2024 alone, eight women have lost their lives to violent acts in Bosnia and Herzegovina, highlighting a growing trend of the most brutal and extreme manifestation of violence against women. Femicide and other forms of violence can and must be prevented through timely and effective interventions, as each passing day without action risks more lives. 

In response to these deep-rooted societal issues, the United Nations in Bosnia and Herzegovina has been actively supporting efforts to implement stronger protective measures and drive systemic change to effectively prevent and eradicate femicide.

Over the past year, our focus has been on intensifying support to all stakeholders to ensure that no woman or girl lives in fear of violence. This includes collaboration with gender institutional mechanisms, sector ministries, civil society organizations, and the media in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Civil society organizations remain essential, offering life-saving support and assistance to survivors and persistently advocating for necessary policy and legislative changes. Together, we have worked to identify systemic shortcomings, strengthen legal frameworks, and improve coordination among stakeholders. These efforts have helped harmonize domestic legislation with international standards, particularly in implementing the Istanbul Convention.

However, the persistent occurrence of these tragedies shows that much more needs to be done—and urgently.

It is imperative that all levels of government in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the entire society prioritize the prevention of and response to gender-based violence, including domestic violence. We remain committed to creating a safer, more just society for all women and girls in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Together, we can eliminate these crimes, which exact an unacceptable toll on individuals and society alike.