Grassroots Activism in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Community Leaders Pave the Way for Lasting Peace

Proactive individuals across the country are making significant contributions to their communities strengthening social cohesion and fostering trust in their local communities. To showcase these remarkable efforts, the United Nations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the support of UN Women, IOM, and UNFPA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, featured 12 exceptional individuals in the “12 Days of Activism for Peace” campaign which started on the International Day of Peace, September 21, and concluded on October 2, the International Day of Non-Violence. The campaign is supported by the United Nations Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund (PBF), which plays a key role in fostering dialogue and creating an environment that promotes peace and cooperation in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Driven by a deep compassion for others and a commitment to creating a more just society, Dobrila Zelić, a passionate young activist from Ribnik, is forging opportunities for youth and inspiring her peers to believe in the transformative power of local change. As a co-founder of the “Mladi grade budućnost” Youth Association and an active member of the Student Council, she has led numerous humanitarian initiatives to assist disadvantaged families and promote volunteerism. Dobrila firmly believes that youth have the power to transform their communities through active engagement. “My goal is not only to raise awareness about the importance of human values in our community but also to create tangible, positive changes in people’s lives, especially for children, by giving them a chance at a better future,” she emphasizes. “I envision my community as a place where we all unite to build a world rooted in tolerance and respect.”

Guided by the same desire to support their communities, other young activists across Bosnia and Herzegovina are stepping up to create positive change at the local level. Mirza Muratagić, who was engaged as a UN volunteer at the Center for Social Welfare in Ključ through a project supported by the United Nations Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund (PBF), draws on his experience from non-governmental organizations to advocate for the community's most vulnerable members. “Volunteering represents a pathway to personal and community transformation. We never know when we might need help from others. When we do good things, the inspiration to contribute to a good cause comes naturally. Challenges are always present, but every obstacle can be overcome with effort”, Mirza shares.

Further south, approximately 80 kilometers from Ključ in Glamoč, young activist Lorena Gvozden is on a mission to inspire young women and men to stay in their hometown and country by creating jobs and opportunities. She believes Glamoč has the potential to be a thriving environment for young talents, allowing them to build a brighter future.

In various ways, yet united by a common purpose, Dobrila, Mirza, and Lorena demonstrate that local activism led by young people can truly impact their communities, fostering stronger and more inclusive environments across Bosnia and Herzegovina. Their work resonates with the belief held by Vahidin Omanović and Mevludin Rahmanović, founders of the Center for Peacebuilding in Sanski Most. These dedicated individuals are committed to the idea that societal transformation begins with empowering youth. “Our biggest challenge is helping young people understand the power they have to bring about positive changes”said Vahidin and Mevludin.

Nedim Krajišnik, Director of the Sarajevo-based Step by Step Centre for Educational Initiatives and an education expert passionate about peacebuilding, embodies the belief in collective effort. He leads transformative projects aimed at empowering teachers and students while fostering collaboration in classrooms throughout the country. “Peace has no substitute; it’s an unquestionable human need”, he emphasizes, highlighting his commitment to creating inclusive, peace-driven educational initiatives.

Similarly, journalist and researcher Velma Šarić, founder of the Post-Conflict Research Center (PCRC) in Sarajevo, has devoted her career to peacebuilding and defending human rights, particularly among young people in the Western Balkans region.

Amina Krvavac, Executive Director of the War Childhood Museum in Sarajevo, also empowers young people to engage in peacebuilding through education programs. The Museum plays a vital role in reconciliation by preserving the stories of those whose childhoods were shaped by war, not only in Bosnia and Herzegovina but also in conflict zones like Ukraine and Syria. “We have created a safe environment where those willing can share their experiences of growing up in war and find a community of people who share that experience. This strengthens their sense of belonging and mutual support, which I consider essential for healing individuals and, consequently, for society as a whole”, Amina says.

Activists like Radmila Žigić, Director of the "Lara" Foundation from Bijeljina, who has been fighting for women's rights for over two decades, and Midheta Kaloper Oruli, President of the "Foča 1992-1995" Association for Wartime Victims, who advocates for support for women survivors of sexual violence during the war, exemplify resilience and determination. "Our pain is not our shame, but our courage," emphasizes Midheta.

In Tuzla, Dr. Branka Antić Štauber, President of the “Snaga žene” Association, provides psychological and medical support to war-affected individuals. Her work on trauma healing is vital for helping survivors rebuild their lives.

Spasoje Kulaga, a war veteran, shares this belief. After the war, he founded the "Pravi Požar" Association in Derventa to help everyone, facing the past with the goal of reconciliation.

Each of these individuals demonstrates the immense power of dialogue and cooperation to heal communities and nurture lasting peace. Their inspiring stories emphasize the transformative potential of local activism in fostering peace across Bosnia and Herzegovina.