Statement by the United Nations in Bosnia and Herzegovina on the femicide in Sarajevo: Urgent action needed to prevent violence and protect women and children

The United Nations underscores the importance of a prompt, thorough, and impartial investigation, as well as full accountability in accordance with the law. We also stress the need to ensure comprehensive protection and support for affected family members.

This case is a stark reminder that violence against women remains a grave and persistent human rights violation in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Femicides are not isolated acts, but the most extreme manifestation of ongoing and often escalating gender‑based violence, with devastating consequences for families, communities, and children. Exposure to such violence, whether directly or indirectly, can have profound and long‑term impacts on children’s safety, wellbeing, and development.

Risks of severe violence can intensify during periods of separation and divorce, especially in situations involving stalking, harassment, psychological violence, and controlling behaviour. These risks are compounded by harmful social norms which can also surface in public. Addressing these root causes is essential to prevent violence before it reaches irreversible consequences.

The killing underscores the need for the full implementation of existing laws and policies aimed at preventing and responding to violence against women, as well as ensuring protection of women at risk. This includes the recent amendments to the Law on Protection from Domestic Violence and Violence against Women in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as the effective application of relevant BiH Criminal Code provisions to ensure timely prosecution and accountability of perpetrators. The effectiveness of protection measures depends on sustained commitment to enforcement, adequate resourcing, and coordinated action, particularly in high-risk cases, alongside decisive efforts to challenge harmful social norms and gender stereotypes that excuse or perpetuate violence. Prevention must extend beyond institutional responses to include early intervention, effective risk assessment, and accessible, quality support services.

The United Nations remains committed to working with institutions and civil society across Bosnia and Herzegovina to strengthen prevention, protection, accountability, ensuring dignity, safety and justice for all women and girls.

UN BiH Resident Coordinator on behalf of United Nations Country Team in Bosnia and Herzegovina