From Shared Heritage to Shared Future — Advancing Peace through Dialogue and Youth Leadership

Twenty years after the Old Bridge Area of the Old City of Mostar was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the city once again hosted the international conference “Mostar 2025: Dialogue for the Future”. More than 200 participants from across the region—including representatives from all levels of government in Bosnia and Herzegovina, ministers, diplomats, youth, cultural experts, and international organizations—gathered on this platform for dialogue, peace, and cooperation.

The conference was jointly organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of BiH, the Government of the Federation of BiH, UNESCO, the City of Mostar, the Center for Peace and Multiethnic Cooperation Mostar, and the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), with the support of the UN Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund (PBF), through the flagship initiative Dialogue for the Future 3 (DFF3), implemented by UNESCO, UNICEF, and UNDP in partnership with the Presidency of BiH and the Ministry of Civil Affairs of BiH.

This year’s theme, “Shared Heritage as a Tool of Diplomacy“ focused on the role of cultural heritage in preserving peace and strengthening cooperation—framed through the symbolism of the Old Bridge, which connects not only two riverbanks, but also generations, communities, and cultures.

The conference was opened by the Member of Presidency of BiH, Denis Bećirović, under whose patronage the event was held. In a video address, he emphasized: 

“We must all strive to build democratic and more just societies through dialogue and mutual understanding.” He stressed that BiH’s shared cultural and historical heritage should serve as a unifying force and warned of the threats posed by extremism, historical revisionism, and genocide denial. “Mostar and its Old Bridge are the best symbols of that message,” he concluded, calling for the building of “bridges of cooperation and dialogue” and reaffirming the country’s strategic goals—EU and NATO membership—and its commitment to defending the foundations of multiculturalism.

Minister of Foreign Affairs of BiH, Elmedin Konaković stated: 

“Messages from Mostar resonate louder than from many other places. Its beauty, cultural-historical value, and UNESCO status create a unique environment for dialogue.” He particularly emphasized the importance of dialogue for the country’s European path: “BiH can be an example to the world that peace, cooperation, and development are possible—perhaps not always quick or easy, but possible, even while wars rage globally.” He also reminded of his role as co-chair of the PBF Peacebuilding Commission alongside the UN Resident Coordinator and stressed that youth are at the heart of all initiatives supported by the Fund.

Speaking on behalf of the Prime Minister of BiH Federation, Minister for Refugees and Displaced Persons Nerin Dizdar stated: 

“Cultural heritage in BiH is not just legacy—it’s a cornerstone of reconciliation, embedded even in the Dayton Peace Agreement. Our experience shows how preserving and celebrating shared heritage can build bridges between communities and shape a peaceful future.”

Director of UNESCO’s Regional Office for Science and Culture in Europe, Magdalena Landry emphasized that the Old Bridge symbolizes not only architectural beauty but also unity:

“The reconstruction of the Old Bridge is not only an architectural achievement but a symbol of reconciliation, connecting people, faiths, and nations. I'm pleased to see so many country representatives sending a message to the future—that culture can unite differences.” She stressed the role of youth in heritage preservation: “UNESCO looks to the future. History is important, but youth are now stepping up as guardians of this legacy.” She proudly highlighted UNESCO’s role in the PBF-supported DFF3 initiative backing the conference.

UN Resident Coordinator in BiH, Ingrid Macdonald, remarked: 

“The Old Bridge is a powerful symbol of reconciliation—a testament that both bridges and communities can be rebuilt.” She noted that BiH is marking several important anniversaries this year, including 30 years of peace, and that the country can significantly contribute to global peacebuilding efforts, especially through the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda: “Women in this country have played a crucial role in advancing justice, and their full participation is essential for lasting peace. Peace cannot be taken for granted—it requires joint efforts, with women and youth at the center.” She reaffirmed the UN’s continued support through the Peacebuilding Fund.

Mostar Mayor Mario Kordić said: 

“Mostar is a living bridge, a center of true cooperation—not just a metaphor. Youth are sending messages of unity, peace, and connection, and I believe those messages will reach the right ears to become reality. Spreading messages of reconciliation and coexistence requires courage and vision. We don’t have the luxury to choose the easier path—we have a responsibility to youth to choose the harder, but right one.”

The diplomatic panel “Shared Heritage as a Tool of Diplomacy” moderated by RCC Secretary General Amer Kapetanović, brought together ministers and senior officials, including Minister Konaković; Gordan Grlić Radman, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of Croatia; Mehmet Kemal Bozay, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye; Zoran Dimitrovski, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of North Macedonia; Periša Kastratović, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Montenegro; and Magdalena Landry, UNESCO Regional Director.

At the close of the panel, participants signed the Mostar Youth Declaration 2025, reaffirming commitments to:

• protect and restore cultural heritage as a foundation for peace and cooperation;
• strengthen the role of youth in promoting and preserving heritage;
• develop cross-border educational and cultural programmes;
• enhance sustainable tourism and cultural exchange;
• advance the European perspective of the Western Balkans.

Youth were not just present—they actively shaped the conference agenda. The panel “Youth in Cultural Heritage Preservation” organized by UNESCO under the DFF3 initiative, showcased youth-led projects promoting dialogue, cultural tourism, and intercommunal cooperation. The Fireside Talk, part of RCC’s EU-funded “Western Balkans Youth Lab” project, gave Young European Ambassadors a platform to present creative proposals—from cross-border museum collaboration to digital storytelling initiatives amplifying local voices.

More than just a symbolic gathering, the conference delivered tangible results and a clear message: a shared commitment to shaping a peaceful, inclusive, and European future for the Western Balkans—placing cultural heritage, dialogue, and youth leadership at its heart.

The commemorative programme began on 19 May with a ceremonial event, including the traditional dive from the Old Bridge and a symbolic flower-throwing in the Neretva River in honor of all war victims.