United Nations in Bosnia and Herzegovina

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Bosnia and Herzegovina:

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10 April 2026

Online catalogue of confiscated assets boosts transparency in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina

After months of dedicated work, young volunteers from across Bosnia and Herzegovina presented the results of their engagement to the judicial and law enforcement professional community - an innovative online catalogue of confiscated assets developed in cooperation with the UNODC, the Federal Agency for the Management of Confiscated Assets (FAZUOI), and the Tech Volunteers for Resilience (Tech4R) initiative supported by the International Centre for Private Sector in Development (ICPSD). However, the story behind this digital tool goes far beyond its presentation.The Tech for Resilience initiative, co-led by UNV and UNDP’s Istanbul International Centre for Private Sector in Development, demonstrates how tech talent can make a meaningful impact in a short time.Over the course of several months, dedicated UN Volunteers worked closely with FAZUOI to better understand the complex process of managing confiscated assets. Their engagement extended well beyond desk work; team leaders visited various locations of confiscated properties in Sarajevo, gaining first-hand insight into how these assets are identified, managed, and repurposed.These field visits were complemented by a series of coordination meetings with institutional partners, where volunteers collaborated with experts to ensure that the data collected was accurate, structured, and meaningful. Through this process, they not only strengthened the technical backbone of the catalogue but also developed a deeper understanding and contributed to the transparency and accountability in public asset management. The result of this joint effort is a user-friendly, interactive digital catalogue that provides a clear overview of confiscated assets, including their current use, general location, characteristics, and estimated value. By making this information more accessible, the platform contributes to a better understanding of how the fight against organized crime and corruption materializes in the confiscation of criminal proceeds, and how these assets can be socially reused. To highlight the significance of the initiative, UN Volunteers shared their perspectives on the impact of the project. The initiative brought together skilled UN Volunteers to put their expertise into action. One of them is Naila Delić. “This was a unique opportunity, as I find that the development of this catalogue is an important step forward in strengthening transparency and accountability in the management of confiscated assets, and that it encourages citizens to have more trust in government institutions. I gained valuable experience and had the joy of using my computer science degree for the progress in my community,” said Naila.Her colleague, Alija Karavelić, also emphasized the importance of youth engagement in such initiatives: “Involving young people volunteering and working in projects like this is the perfect way to kickstart a career and replace the fear of 'not being ready' with genuine professional confidence. Also, projects like these are giving opportunities for youngsters to meet seniors and professionals from whom they can learn and get the advice needed to be successful. I am especially grateful to our organizers for letting us work independently and giving us the space to lead and prove our competence with mentorship, coordination, and support.” At the ceremonial presentation in Neum, the UN Volunteers were awarded certificates of appreciation by the director of FAZUOI, Emir Bašić, and UN Resident Coordinator in BiH, Arnhild Spence, in recognition of their contribution to this important project. This further highlighted the importance of involving young people through initiatives such as Tech4R, which, through innovation and digital solutions, contribute to strengthening the transparency of public institutions and building more resilient societies.

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Press Release

08 April 2026

International Roma Day: Joint statement by United Nations in BiH, European Union in BiH, and OSCE Mission to BiH

As highlighted in the latest European Commission report on Bosnia and Herzegovina, Roma remain the most vulnerable and disadvantaged minority in the country, facing persistent discrimination, anti-Gypsyism and social exclusion. The estimated 50,000 Roma in Bosnia and Herzegovina continue to face systemic impediments in exercising their civil, cultural, economic, political and social rights. Far too many Roma regularly experience stigmatization and stereotyping, and institutions fail to protect their rights and respond to their needs. These challenges reflect entrenched discrimination as well as longstanding gaps in the design and delivery of public services. Unequal access to education, health, housing, water and sanitation, social protection and employment further deepen long-term socio-economic marginalization. Needs- and evidence-based policies, equitable service delivery, and stronger institutional accountability require timely and accurate data. With limited and insufficiently disaggregated data on Roma communities, it is not possible to fully assess the actual extent of these inequalities.Roma remain the most marginalized minority in the country, disproportionately excluded from political, social and economic life, with consequences transcending generations. The critically low participation of Roma children in early childhood education – below 2 per cent – puts this community behind from the beginning. While primary school attendance in the general population reaches 98 per cent, only 69.3 per cent of Roma children are enrolled, with enrolment dropping to 23 per cent at the secondary level, including a mere 18 per cent of Roma girls. These barriers to education deepen the socio-economic exclusion of Roma communities by feeding ongoing disparities in access to viable work and formal employment, active labour market participation, and social protection. Roma women and girls face multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination based on gender, ethnicity and socio-economic status, erecting even greater hurdles to education, healthcare, employment and participation in decision-making. In some Roma communities, early marriage bears serious consequences for girls and boys, creating pressures to assume adult roles prematurely, reducing educational and economic opportunities while also impacting individual bodily autonomy. Roma continue to face obstacles to the exercise of civil and political rights, including electoral rights, due to their constitutional status as “Others”. In its landmark Sejdić and Finci v. Bosnia and Herzegovina judgment, the European Court of Human Rights held that the constitutional and electoral frameworks in Bosnia and Herzegovina discriminated against Others, including Roma, in the exercise of their electoral rights. The non-implementation of that judgment and subsequent rulings on similar matters underscores the need for long-overdue reforms through inclusive consultations with civil society, including Roma.Potential statelessness further impedes the exercise of fundamental civil and political rights. Noting the progress made, with the support of international partners and civil society, so that most known vulnerable persons have been assisted to confirm their legal identity, some Roma remain at risk, including due to missing or incomplete documentation for children born abroad to parents from Bosnia and Herzegovina.Greater Roma inclusion also requires the recognition of the historical suffering of Roma communities, including the atrocity crimes perpetrated during the Second World War and the 1992–1995 conflict. Recent research has documented mass killings, enforced disappearances, torture, conflict-related sexual violence, and forced displacement of Roma, including women and children. In some areas, Roma settlements were obliterated, ceasing to exist. Equitably and effectively dealing with the past in Bosnia and Herzegovina necessitates ensuring accountability for such crimes against Roma, as well as truth, reparation and memorialization, to ensure this history is neither lost nor forgotten.Looking ahead, and recognizing how much work still lies ahead, we welcome the preparation of the new Action Plan for the Social Inclusion of Roma Men and Roma Women for 2026-2030. We note, however, with concern that the draft Plan was not adopted by the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is important that this process moves forward without further delay. We therefore encourage the responsible authorities to build on the substantial work already undertaken and to submit a revised version of the Plan for prompt consideration and adoption by the Council of Ministers.Advancing Roma inclusion is required by Bosnia and Herzegovina’s international human rights obligations; recommendations by international human rights mechanisms, including those under the Universal Periodic Review, commitments established by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the pledge to leave no one behind, relevant OSCE commitments, and the 2019 Poznan Declaration on Roma integration. Roma inclusion is also a key benchmark in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s progress towards the European Union membership that is explicitly recognized in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Reform Agenda and the European Union Growth Plan, particularly under the Human Capital policy area, which emphasizes the need to address vulnerabilities of marginalized groups, including Roma, through improved access to education, employment and social services. Ultimately, ensuring the full inclusion of Roma is also essential to building a more equal, cohesive and resilient society for all.The United Nations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the European Union in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina

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Press Release

01 April 2026

Peace camp brings together over 60 young people from Mostar and Stolac to drive community action

From 28 to 31 March, more than 60 students from 15 secondary schools in Mostar and Stolac participated in educational workshops, field activities, and teamwork focused on dialogue, volunteerism, environmental protection, and active youth participation in society. Through an interactive approach and exchange of experiences, participants went beyond discussing challenges in their communities and developed concrete action plans to address them, which they presented during the closing session. The Head of UNICEF Office in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Marc Lucet, attended the closing session on behalf of the DFF3 initiative jointly implemented by UNICEF, UNDP, and UNESCO. Engaging with participants on their experiences, the challenges they face in their communities, and the solutions they propose, he emphasized the importance of such initiatives. Impressed by their energy and commitment, he stated:“The United Nations in Bosnia and Herzegovina will continue to support initiatives that bring young people together. We remain committed to empowering youth and communities to build better environments through dialogue, critical thinking, and raising awareness about the importance of environmental protection. This camp demonstrates that young people in Bosnia and Herzegovina have the knowledge, energy, and dedication to drive positive change. It is particularly encouraging to see how, through dialogue and joint work, they develop concrete ideas and raise important questions.” Participants highlighted that the camp offered more than learning—it provided an opportunity to develop new skills, build trust and cooperation, and better understand the communities they come from.“I had never been to Stolac before. Through this camp, I realized that we share similar challenges. That is what connected us—we spoke openly, exchanged ideas, and tried to find ways to overcome divisions and negative narratives. This camp gave us the space to do that,” said Jelena Vujević (17) from Mostar. Throughout the programme, participants strengthened their skills in dialogue, mutual understanding, and non-violent communication, and learned how to approach conflicts constructively. Field activities further enriched their experience—through visits to partner organizations Nešto više (Eco-Design Centre) and Novi Val Blagaj, they gained practical knowledge on environmental protection, including permaculture principles, as well as the importance of volunteerism and active youth engagement, symbolically marked by the planting of olive trees. The second part of the camp focused on developing practical solutions. Participants learned the basics of project development—from idea to presentation—and designed four youth-led initiatives to be implemented in Mostar and Stolac. These include cleaning the banks of the Bregava River, improving public spaces, and launching a mini environmental awareness campaign through short video content.“I learned a lot through discussions, but what mattered most was that we didn’t just talk—we visited places and saw what exists in our surroundings. I met new people and realized that the divisions between us are not as big as they sometimes seem,” said Ajdin Hodžić (17) from Mostar.A similar view was shared by Daris Turajlić (17) from Stolac: “Stolac and Mostar are both facing environmental pressures. Through discussions over these four days, it became clear that water resources and the environment in both cities are at risk. This camp is a great opportunity, and we are ready to take concrete action to protect our communities.”These activities mark the beginning of a broader process. In the coming period, peer-led workshops and follow-up activities will be implemented in local communities, with mentorship support from the organizers.The Dialogue for the Future 3 (DFF3) initiative is jointly implemented by UNDP, UNICEF, and UNESCO in partnership with the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Ministry of Civil Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the aim to strengthen social cohesion and trust among diverse communities through dialogue, cooperation, and active civic participation, particularly among young people.

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Press Release

27 March 2026

Strengthening partnerships against hate speech: a new initiative in Bosnia and Herzegovina

The first Steering Committee meeting of the project “Partnerships for Equality: No to Hate Speech and Divisive Narratives in Bosnia and Herzegovina” was held at the UN house in Sarajevo, marking the official start of the implementation of this initiative.This is a new, three-year initiative of the United Nations Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund (PBF), aimed at strengthening coordinated responses to hate speech, divisive narratives and disinformation, key challenges that undermine social cohesion and democratic dialogue in Bosnia and Herzegovina.The initiative is jointly implemented by UNESCO, UNDP and UN Women, in partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Transport of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in close cooperation with other institutions, media and civil society organizations. Its objective is to reduce tolerance for hate speech, improve public discourse and strengthen trust among communities across Bosnia and Herzegovina.The Steering Committee, co-chaired by the UN Resident Coordinator in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Arnhild Spence, and the Minister of Communications and Transport of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Edin Forto, plays an important role in providing strategic guidance and overseeing implementation, ensuring an inclusive and coordinated approach to addressing hate speech and divisive narratives. United Nations Resident Coordinator in Bosnia and Herzegovina Arnhild Spence emphasized: “The relevance of countering hate speech lies in its contribution to conflict prevention. Strong partnerships are therefore essential, particularly the strong domestic ownership involving the Ministry of Communications and Transport of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Ministry of Human Rights and Refugees of Bosnia and Herzegovina, civil society and the international community, in order to ensure both effective implementation and sustained institutional ownership of the initiative.”Minister of Communications and Transport of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Edin Forto, expressed his appreciation to the Peacebuilding Fund for its support to this important issue, highlighting the importance of a joint approach and institutional leadership: “Institutions have a key responsibility in shaping public space and communication standards. Strengthening cooperation between institutions, media and civil society is essential to counter hate speech and build trust. This initiative provides a framework for long-term, coordinated action in this area.”Civil society representatives also highlighted the importance of collaboration and a broader approach to digital spaces. Executive Director of Mediacentar, Maida Muminović, attended the meeting on behalf of the Coalition for Freedom of Expression and Content Moderation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which brings together institutions, technology companies, social media platforms and civil society organizations, and works to strengthen cooperation to ensure a safe and responsible online environment for all citizens. The Coalition’s participation in this initiative will further contribute to developing coordinated and long-term solutions to counter hate speech and divisive narratives. The initiative will focus on four key pillars: strengthening institutional capacities and policy coordination; responsible media and digital spaces; inclusive dialogue and community engagement; and youth and civil society empowerment.It also places special emphasis on the gender dimension of hate speech, recognizing that women, particularly in public and political life, as well as journalists and activists, are often targeted by gender-based attacks, online harassment and disinformation campaigns. The initiative integrates gender-responsive approaches across all components.The meeting was attended by members of the Steering Committee, which, in addition to UN agencies and the ministry implementing the project includes other key stakeholders from institutions and civil society, as well as by the Ambassador of Switzerland to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Gabriele Derighetti, and other partners.During the meeting, the project, its objectives, the 2026 workplan and governance structure were presented, after which the Steering Committee adopted the workplan and defined the next steps.

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24 March 2026

Women in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Film Industry Driving Social Change

This progress has not been easy. Before the war, only two female directors in Bosnia and Herzegovina — Vesna Ljubić and Suada Kapić — made feature films. Today, a growing number of women filmmakers are achieving notable success both in the country and internationally — from Oscar nominations to screenings and awards at prestigious festivals in Venice, Cannes, Berlin and Locarno.More importantly, film in Bosnia and Herzegovina has become a space where women can express themselves freely and contribute to addressing overlooked societal issues. As award-winning film director Aida Begić points out, this progress is the result of a long-term struggle.“It is the result of years of work, effort and success of all of us who, decades ago, courageously entered a space dominated by men. Although the struggle continues, attitudes toward women in the industry and the arts are changing for the better.”This shift is also visible among younger generations. More and more young women are entering the industry — not only as directors, screenwriters and producers, but also as cinematographers, editors and students of audiovisual arts.The Association of Filmmakers has also noted a rise in the number of women and their influence in the profession. Through projects focused on student film, they are seeing an increasing number of young female filmmakers achieving notable results both in Bosnia and Herzegovina and at international festivals, addressing themes relevant to young women in contemporary society.Films as drivers of positive changeIn a society where women’s perspectives on history often remain unheard, films that address complex issues such as war from a female perspective carry particular value. Many women filmmakers have sparked public discussions on topics that were both necessary and difficult to address.“The first film that initiated a change in the law on civilian victims of war was ‘Grbavica’ by Jasmila Žbanić,” says Aida Begić.Asja Krsmanović, Head of CineLink at the Sarajevo Film Festival, also emphasizes the importance of this film not only for cinema in the country but for society as a whole. It sparked a broad public debate about the consequences of wartime sexual violence and the rights of survivors and their children, triggering a sustained campaign which, years later, led to changes to the law recognizing children born because of wartime sexual violence as a distinct category of civilian victims of war. As she notes, the impact of film is not always direct, but it is profound:“A film cannot directly change things, but it can be a tool of influence, encouraging the public to start thinking about a particular issue, and it can restore dignity to those who have survived tragedies. It can also open dialogue that is far more nuanced than media discourse and far more accessible than academic debate about issues that shape certain societies and that they must confront,” says Krsmanović.Aida Begić notes that several other films followed, dealing with the immediate consequences of the war and the challenges women face in peacetime. In her film Snow, she explores patriarchal norms and women’s role in sustaining communities in the absence of men; Elma Tataragić’s The Happiest Man in the World addresses confrontation and forgiveness; and Una Gunjak’s debut Excursion examines the stigmatization of female sexuality and peer violence among schoolchildren.However, Melina Alagić from the Association of Film Workers says that we still live in a highly patriarchal society, and that art should point to problems and bring about change.“In that sense, we need more films that speak about the position of women in our society.” Awards as a boost for women filmmakersDespite these successes, challenges remain. Like many sectors, the film industry in Bosnia and Herzegovina faces financial instability, which poses a major challenge for many women working in this area. A sector that once symbolized social prestige and offered stable working conditions now brings significant uncertainty. For most, filmmaking is not their primary occupation. Instead, they rely on other jobs, such as teaching or commercial projects, to secure their livelihoods, explains Asja Krsmanović. She also notes that this instability paradoxically creates more opportunities for women:“That may also be one of the reasons why the field is becoming less attractive to men, while more women are managing to establish themselves within it. It is important to view this in the context. Bosnia and Herzegovina has a highly unstable film industry, yet in such an industry women are achieving outstanding results.” In this context, awards that recognize effort and provide financial support are particularly important, as they also encourage women filmmakers to continue their work. As part of the Sarajevo Film Festival, the Female Voices award supports the development of projects by women filmmakers from around the world. At last year’s festival, the grant was awarded to Turkish filmmaker Zeynep Köprülü for the project Rain Country. Aida Begić, who was member of the jury, notes that such awards help films stand out and facilitate future financing, which is especially important in a time of hyperproduction.“Awards that include financial support are particularly valuable, because without some of them many films would never see the light of day,” Begić says.In addition, the “Amira Lekić” award, established by the Association of Filmmakers, supports emerging women filmmakers through grants and mentorship. Last year’s recipient, producer Lara Grozdanić, highlights how proud she is for that moment in her career as well as how important this support is for her professional development:“I am currently writing my first screenplay, so one of the key goals of the mentorship is to develop my screenwriting skills alongside my career as a producer. I know my mentor, Adis Đapo, very well, as we have collaborated for five years on various projects through the Association ‘Sarajevo Center for Contemporary Art – pro.ba’. That is why this mentorship is particularly valuable to me – he knows my work so far, my strengths and weaknesses, and understands in which aspects of my professional development I still need to work on.” The initiative “Women Lead the Way to Peace and Security in Bosnia and Herzegovina”, jointly implemented by UN Women, UNFPA and IOM with the support of the United Nations Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund (PBF), has been supporting these awards. Edita Miftari, WPS Programme Specialist at UN Women, explains why supporting women artists is an important part of the initiative:“In Bosnia and Herzegovina, many topics remain very difficult to talk about, even though they are essential for reconciliation and healing. Art creates space to overcome such barriers and gives a voice to women who have long been unheard. Through the Women, Peace and Security agenda, we believe that artistic projects can contribute to social change while also supporting the individual development of those involved in the creative process.”Engaging in art is a privilege, and working in film does not mean doing it only for today, but also for the future. Film is also a document of its time that will allow someone a hundred years from now to better understand how we live today, what occupies our daily lives, what shapes the way we live and how we deal with it, says Asja Krsmanović.“That is why it is important for women to work in film today, and why they should be supported, despite all the discouraging factors that we as a profession collectively have to face,” she concludes.

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18 March 2026

Religious leaders united against silence

In late 2025, a gathering of women and religious officials from different communities took place in Vareš to discuss a sensitive but important issue — how to provide better support to survivors of wartime sexual violence, particularly in addressing the stigma that continues to follow them.Three decades after the war, many survivors still face judgment, silence and social exclusion. Research conducted in 2016 by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Bosnia and Herzegovina shows that survivors — most often women but also men — continue to live with the consequences of social condemnation, marginalization and feelings of shame. Such attitudes deepen isolation and often discourage survivors from speaking about their experiences or seeking support.Changing this environment requires more than formal policies and commitments — it also calls for engagement within communities themselves, particularly from those whose voices carry trust and influence.Among them are religious leaders.Recognizing their role in shaping community attitudes, faith communities in Bosnia and Herzegovina have already taken steps to address stigma. In 2017, with the support of UNFPA, the Interreligious Council of Bosnia and Herzegovina adopted a Declaration condemning the stigmatization of survivors of conflict-related sexual violence and emphasizing the responsibility of religious communities to be spaces of acceptance rather than judgment.Yet, as participants in Vareš noted, stigma is often reinforced through everyday attitudes and interactions — precisely where beliefs are formed and where they can gradually begin to change.It was in this context that the discussion in Vareš was organized as part of one of the initiatives supported by the United Nations Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) — “Women Lead the Way to Peace and Security in Bosnia and Herzegovina,” jointly implemented by UN Women, UNFPA and IOM in cooperation with the Ministry for Human Rights and Refugees of Bosnia and Herzegovina.Through this initiative, local actors are encouraged to open dialogue on issues that are often difficult to discuss but are essential for building more inclusive and resilient communities.For many participants, simply coming together and discussing these issues was an important first step, creating space for conversations that rarely take place publicly.One of the participants, Fra Mirko Majdančić, Parish Priest of Brestovsko Parish, emphasized that the role of religious leaders is not to impose solutions but to help reconnect people within their communities.“The task of religious officials is to build bridges, strengthen the community and create connections among people.”He noted that religious communities play an important role because many people link their identity and sense of belonging to them. At the same time, he pointed to the limits of that influence. Confronting stigma — particularly when it comes to conflict-related sexual violence — is a gradual process that requires patience and persistence.Fra Mirko stresses that empathy must be the starting point:“If we want to help, we must approach that person as if she were our sister, mother or child.”For Ramiz ef. Zubača, Chief Imam of the Islamic Community of Vareš, the discussion also highlighted the responsibility of religious leaders as trusted figures within their communities. In his view, faith can play a constructive role when it is used to support survivors rather than judge them.“Faith should be a source of strength and encouragement to help and protect those who survived violence.”Through sermons, counselling and everyday engagement with community members, religious leaders can influence how communities respond — either reinforcing stigma or helping to overcome it.The gathering in Vareš is part of a wider series of local dialogues supported through this Peacebuilding Fund initiative, aimed at encouraging open conversations on issues that are often difficult to address.By bringing together religious leaders, women and community representatives, these discussions help challenge silence around wartime sexual violence and promote greater understanding and solidarity with survivors.As participants in Vareš emphasized, meaningful change begins when communities themselves take part in confronting difficult legacies of the past and creating space for dignity and support.

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18 March 2026

Rural women farmers in Bosnia and Herzegovina advance food security and equality

Women are behind much of the food production in Bosnia and Herzegovina. An estimated 60-80 per cent of food on the tables in Bosnia and Herzegovina goes through their hands, yet much of their work remains invisible and undervalued. When women’s contributions to the economy are not formally recognized, they risk exclusion from the agriculture subsidies, financing opportunities, and essential investments in farming. To address this gap, UN Women partnered with several institutions from late 2022 to 2026 to integrate gender criteria into public agricultural grant programmes, ensuring rural women farmers have equitable access to economic and environmental justice. From isolation to one of the largest farms in the Kakanj municipalityOn a seven-acre farm above the town of Kakanj in central Bosnia and Herzegovina, Svjetlana Šolbić manages the largest organic greenhouse production in her municipality. Originally from Sarajevo, she moved to Kakanj 15 years ago after getting married. Together with her husband, she bought several small parcels of land and gradually built their farm into their family’s primary source of income.With no previous agricultural experience, she and her husband learned everything on their own. “While I am focused on growing vegetables, my husband handles heavy fieldwork and sells our production at the local and neighbouring markets,” the farmer says.Svjetlana Šolbić grows peppers and tomatoes in greenhouses, and potatoes and wheat outdoors. She also keeps 15 cows with calves and is considering expanding into sheep farming. Until recently, she maintained nearly 30 beehives, until two harsh winters and a bear attack destroyed the apiary. The remoteness of the farm is both an asset and a challenge. It provides the perfect conditions for organic farming, far from pollution and intensive farming. However, isolation also meant limited access to information about public agricultural grants.“For years, that isolation also meant limited access to information about subsidy opportunities,” Svjetlana Šolbić explains.Modest investments, major changes for women farmers Through the Sweden-funded Women Driving Resilience in Agriculture and Rural Areas (RW) programme, UN Women and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) collaborated with entity-level ministries to introduce gender-sensitive criteria into public agricultural grants. These changes ensured that eligibility and scoring systems better reflected the realities faced by women farmers.The programme also strengthened cooperation with municipal agricultural departments, improving outreach to women farmers in remote communities. In this regard, Svjetlana Šolbić is one of the women farmers who benefited from a public agricultural grant that helped her expand and upgrade her farm. Thanks to the financial support, she acquired three 10,000-litre water tanks to secure irrigation during dry periods, a solar-powered electric fence to protect her land from wildlife, and improved watering systems for her cattle. “These investments will help us to protect our production from wildlife damage and strengthen our resilience. They allow us to plan, not just respond to problems,” noted the farmer. “As part of the programme design, monitoring visits were conducted even for smaller grants, amounts that would not normally require field verification. Ministry representatives later noted that visiting farms provided valuable insight into how even modest investments can create meaningful improvements for households and rural communities,” said Šemsa Alić, UN Women Women’s Economic Empowerment Programme Coordinator in Bosnia and Herzegovina.Under the revised subsidy programmes, 56 rural women farmers across the country received approximately USD 270,000 in public investment grants, ranging from USD 2,700 to USD 5,400, according to UN Women data. These grants supported investments such as irrigation systems, greenhouse modernization, livestock infrastructure, and other equipment that boost productivity and climate resilience.

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27 February 2026

Women’s Voices for Peace and Security

Organized from 03 to 06 November 2025 in Bijeljina by the Lara Foundation, under the United Nations Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) in Bosnia and Herzegovina programme Women Lead the Way Towards Peace and Security in BiH (WPS), jointly implemented by UN Women, UNFPA and IOM in partnership with the Ministry of Human Rights and Refugees of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the camp gathered more than 20 peacebuilders, activists and community leaders from across the country. Over four days, participants connected, exchanged experiences, explored the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Agenda, and reflected on how women’s leadership and solidarity can strengthen safer and more inclusive communities. Ljilja Lukić, Project Coordinator at the Lara Foundation stressed:“The camp showed that the strength of women is immense, and that they are often unaware of the changes they have already brought to their communities. In a political environment such as ours, working on peacebuilding requires courage, and the participants demonstrated both courage and commitment.” Through dialogue and group work, participants mapped local initiatives that have improved conditions for women — from advocacy for access to health services to community safety actions and campaigns addressing gender-based violence. One particularly powerful story came from women living in rural areas who must travel more than 60 kilometers to access basic gynecological care. The discussion sparked immediate solidarity and led participants to begin shaping a joint advocacy initiative.Jelena Tučić, Communications Coordinator at the Udružene žene Foundation in Banja Luka shared her impressions:“The most important message I carry from the camp is the strength and power that women have when they come together. Only here did I fully realize how many changes were achieved thanks to women’s initiatives, often without us even noticing.” Sessions led by experts explored the WPS Agenda, the history of feminist movements in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the often-overlooked role of women in local peacebuilding processes. Participants also discussed institutional cooperation in responding to violence against women, engaging with representatives of the security sector, legal professionals, and local gender equality mechanisms.Ifeta Ćesir Škoro, President of the Initiative of Women and Citizens of Mostar said:The atmosphere throughout the camp was collaborative, reflective, and energizing. “I witnessed the power of women to move mountains — and they truly do. Four days passed without a feeling of fatigue. Instead, they gave me motivation and strength.” Camp facilitator Slobodan Blagovčanin described the space as one defined by empathy, solidarity, and ideas, recalling how participants began developing joint solutions to improve women’s access to healthcare — even when the issue did not directly affect them personally.In the coming months, participants will carry this momentum forward by conducting community-level safety assessments aimed at identifying key risks and opportunities for strengthening women’s protection and participation. The findings will contribute to broader efforts under this joint programme to advance the WPS Agenda at both local and country levels.

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27 February 2026

Insights from Sarajevo: Through the Lens of a Young Participant of the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Summer School

Breaking BoundariesI never imagined that a week spent in Sarajevo, surrounded by people whose worlds were so different from my own, would teach me what courage and resilience truly mean — and what it really means to call someone a hero in a place shaped by survival. My name is Genta Abdiji. Growing up in a small village in North Macedonia, I felt early on both the spoken and unspoken limitations placed around me. As a young woman, I often witnessed how women’s potential could be confined by the belief that marriage should be the center of their lives.My search for meaning and belonging eventually led me to peacebuilding.I wanted to leave a place that no longer allowed me to move forward, so I studied in France, Turkey and Latvia. For me, education meant freedom — the possibility to ask questions, challenge boundaries, and shape life on my own terms. At the same time, I always found myself drawn to people, volunteering, and writing. Becoming a UN Regional Youth Peacebuilding Fellow gave me a space to grow this part of myself even further. That journey brought me to the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Summer School, held from 22 to 26 September 2025 in Sarajevo, organized by the University of Sarajevo – Faculty of Criminalistics, Criminology and Security Studies, with support from the United Nations Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) - through the regional Youth 4 Inclusion, Equality & Trust and Women Lead the Way Towards Peace and Security in BiH projects. The programme brought together 41 young women and men from across the region and beyond — people with different experiences but a shared desire to understand peace and their role in building it.Witnessing Bosnia, Understanding PeaceAs a child, I watched the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina on television. I could not understand its full scale, but I felt the weight of loss and the extraordinary strength of people who continued to move forward.In Sarajevo, those memories gained new meaning.Every conversation during the Summer School shaped us. Discussions about youth participation, gender equality, and the role of media in post-conflict societies reminded me of one simple truth: real change begins when those who were once silenced are finally heard.Here, the WPS agenda was not just a policy framework. It came alive through stories — in the women rebuilding trust, in the courage to speak about loss, and in the everyday work of building peace at home, in communities, and across borders.The programme gathered 50 participants from 11 countries, but what stayed with me most was not the number — it was the feeling of connection that grew among us.My Hero: Adisa LikićVisiting the War Childhood Museum confronted us with the reality of conflict in the most human way possible. Standing among stories of children whose lives had been permanently changed, I felt small in the face of their courage — but also deeply motivated to contribute to peace in my own way.One encounter, however, stayed with me above all others.Listening to the life story of Adisa Likić, founder of the women’s association “Zvijezda,” I felt profound respect. Adisa, a survivor of wartime violence, spoke with a trembling but determined voice. Her organization began by supporting women affected by war and has since grown into a network focused on healing, connection, and empowerment.Watching her quietly yet powerfully lead women across the country, care for her community, and support her family left me with one clear thought: Adisa, you are my hero.Her courage is not loud — it is lived, every day, transforming pain into solidarity and action. She reminded me what WPS truly represents: women who lead with empathy and turn their strength into change.Reflection and ConnectionSarajevo became a mirror of my own journey.My parents did not have much, but they gave me something invaluable — a home filled with books, conversation, and curiosity. Traveling and studying taught me that growth is not measured in kilometers, but in how deeply we learn to understand and connect with others.Listening to people in Bosnia and Herzegovina, I realized how universal resilience and empathy are. This experience gave me a global perspective, but it also deepened my sense of responsibility toward my own community.Looking AheadI left Sarajevo with a clearer sense of purpose — to share what I learned with women in my community and help create spaces where their voices can be heard.Peace is not a distant goal. It begins in small moments — in the courage to listen, the willingness to act, and the belief that empathy can rebuild what violence once tried to erase.

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Story

18 February 2026

Local Dialogue Platforms Connect Communities Within and Across Bosnia and Herzegovina

Every community has energy, ideas, and people willing to contribute. What is often missing is a space where this energy can be connected and directed toward the common good. Local Dialogue Platforms (LDPs) provide exactly that — bringing together people with diverse experiences, roles, and perspectives around a shared purpose.Established in earlier phases of the Dialogue for the Future (DFF) initiative, LDPs now serve as an inclusive framework where citizens, young people, civil society organizations, local authorities, and other community actors come together to reflect on priorities and seek responses to shared challenges.Through open and structured dialogue, challenges are not seen merely as problems, but as starting points for action — shaping initiatives and solutions that can be developed in the short, medium, and long term.In this process, dialogue takes on a deeper meaning: it reminds us that trust, social cohesion, and peace are not given, but are built every day — through cooperation, understanding, and a willingness to listen to different perspectives.In this way, LDPs become more than spaces for conversation — they evolve into mechanisms that connect communities and institutions, strengthen trust, encourage active participation, and contribute to addressing issues that matter for local development.Catalytic support of the PBFThrough the third phase of the Dialogue for the Future 3 (DFF3) initiative — jointly implemented by UNDP, UNICEF, and UNESCO in partnership with the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Ministry of Civil Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with support from the United Nations Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) — previous experiences are being built upon to further strengthen the Local Dialogue Platform model.The catalytic support of the PBF has enabled this model not only to grow, but also to evolve into a more sustainable mechanism for dialogue and cooperation at the local level, while expanding to new communities. In this context, a two-day workshop for LDP coordinators was held in Sarajevo, bringing together 20 participants from 13 partner communities across Bosnia and Herzegovina — not only those involved in DFF3, but also representatives of communities participating in the “Bridges of Trust: Strengthening Social Cohesion and Resilience in Bosnia and Herzegovina” (SCORE) programme, implemented by UNDP with support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark.At the heart of this process are the coordinators — local facilitators who play a key role in ensuring that dialogue does not remain a one-off event, but becomes a continuous process. By bringing together diverse actors, organizing meetings, and guiding collective reflection on community priorities, they help transform ideas emerging from dialogue into concrete initiatives, recommendations, and joint actions.The workshop provided a space for exchange, peer learning, and joint reflection on the further development of Local Dialogue Platforms. Through practical exercises, experience-sharing, and networking, participants further strengthened their role in facilitating inclusive dialogue processes at the local level.In this way, LDPs not only reinforce dialogue within individual communities, but also contribute to building a broader network of cooperation and knowledge exchange across the country — connecting local actors who face similar challenges and work toward shared goals.For many participants, engagement in Local Dialogue Platforms also contributes to personal and professional development. Ivana Kovačević from Teslić reflects on their impact:“I see the value of LDPs in the space they create for open dialogue, connecting different actors, and jointly seeking solutions to local challenges. Through LDPs, trust between citizens and institutions is strengthened, active participation is encouraged, and a sense of responsibility for community development is fostered. Working within the LDP has also empowered me personally — strengthening my facilitation and communication skills, increasing my confidence, and deepening my sense of responsibility toward the community.” A similar experience is shared by Berina Amidžić from Stolac, who highlights the importance of the space LDPs create:“Through the project, I entered the municipal building and the meeting room for the first time in 30 years. We sat together with organizations working on different issues and had the opportunity to listen to one another. For me, the project was like a window through which we could finally see and hear each other.”Neven Paštar from Glamoč emphasizes the importance of a long-term perspective:“I see LDPs as a form of support — though not a solution in themselves — for the development of local communities, strengthening active citizenship, and ultimately the progress of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Their transformative potential is already showing positive results, but assessing concrete changes naturally requires time.”Upon returning to their communities, coordinators continue the next phase of work — applying the approaches developed during the workshop, bringing together diverse stakeholders, and ensuring that citizens’ voices continue to shape local priorities and decision-making processes.This approach is already demonstrating tangible impact. In many communities, Local Dialogue Platforms have been formally integrated into the work of municipalities and cities through decisions by mayors, laying the foundation for their long-term sustainability as part of local governance structures.Through continued capacity-building of coordinators, the project further strengthens these mechanisms, enabling LDPs to continue functioning beyond the duration of project activities — as locally rooted, functional spaces for dialogue and cooperation.In this way, the initiative not only supports ongoing processes, but also contributes to building lasting capacities and sustainable solutions that strengthen trust, social cohesion, and the resilience of communities across Bosnia and Herzegovina.

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Press Release

07 April 2026

World Health Day 2026 - Together for health. Stand with science.

Under the theme “Together for health. Stand with science”, a year-long campaign is kick-started, drawing attention to the power of scientific evidence to manage and prevent disease as well as to protect and promote health, with special attention for the most vulnerable.Bosnia and Herzegovina has strong capacities and a rich tradition in public health, preventive medicine, and science-based action. Health professionals, public health institutes, academic institutions, and partner organizations continue to demonstrate the importance of relying on evidence, expertise, and innovation to strengthen health services and improve population health outcomes.Today, science plays a central role across all areas of the health system, from immunization and prevention of communicable diseases to early detection of noncommunicable diseases, as well as the development of digital solutions and modern technologies that support more accessible, efficient, and higher-quality health care.A particularly important role is played by primary health care, which remains the foundation of a people-centred health system. Family medicine teams, nurses, and community health workers are the vital link between scientific knowledge and its application in everyday practice. Through updated guidelines, continuous professional education, preventive programmes, screenings, and immunization, science directly contributes to better health and improved quality of life.Digital health, including new developments based on artificial intelligence and the effective use of data, is increasingly central to informed decision-making. Strong health information systems enhance strategic planning, monitoring of progress, and responding more rapidly to emerging health challenges.The campaign calls on governments, scientists, health workers, partners, and the public to:stand with science by engaging with evidence, facts, and science-based guidance to protect health;rebuild and strengthen trust in science and public health;support science-led solutions for a healthier and safer future. For Bosnia and Herzegovina, this is an opportunity to further highlight the importance of collaboration across the health sector, education, veterinary medicine, environmental protection, and other sectors that collectively contribute to individual and community well-being. This spirit of partnership and multidisciplinary cooperation lies at the heart of sustainable and long-term progress.World Health Day 2026 reminds us that science, partnership, and trust are essential allies for health. By standing together with science, we build a healthier, more resilient, and safer future for everyone.Dr Erwin Cooreman, WHO Special Representative

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Press Release

13 March 2026

Invitation to CSOs to Join Consultations on Addressing Hate Speech and Divisive Narratives under a New PBF Initiative

The programme is implemented by UN Women, UNESCO and UNDP, in cooperation with the Ministry of Communications and Transport of Bosnia and Herzegovina and aims to strengthen institutional and societal responses to hate speech and divisive narratives in Bosnia and Herzegovina.As part of the early implementation phase of the UN Women component of the joint programme, this consultation seeks to engage civil society organizations working in the areas of human rights, gender equality, media freedom, digital rights, peacebuilding, and social cohesion. The discussion will provide an opportunity to exchange perspectives on current challenges, identify opportunities for collaboration, and ensure that programme activities benefit from the expertise and experience of civil society actors.The consultation will be held online on 26 March 2026 from 13:00 to 15:00.Civil society organizations that meet the following criteria are invited to register:Work in areas such as human rights, gender equality, media and journalism, digital rights and online safety, peacebuilding, youth engagement, or social cohesion;Have relevant experience or ongoing activities related to hate speech, divisive narratives, advocacy, media monitoring, community engagement, or protection of vulnerable groups.Organizations interested in participating are invited to register via the following link: Prijava: Online konsultativni sastanak sa organizacijama civilnog društva - Google Forms by 24 March 2026.We look forward to your participation and valuable contributions to this discussion.

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Press Release

13 March 2026

Opening of the multimedia exhibition “U Sarajevu sve po staROM”

The exhibition was developed by a creative team of young people from Sarajevo — Almir Agić, Nedžla Čolo, Ena Bečirević, Lamija Abazović and Mak Filipović — under the mentorship of Ivana Roso.Speaking at the opening of the exhibition at Galerija “Manifesto”, Almir Agić emphasized that the initiative was created out of a desire for equality.“The exhibition is an attempt to open space for dialogue, curiosity, and the courage to admit to ourselves that things are not always as we think. Peace and equality do not arise on their own — they emerge when we are willing to listen to one another.” Visitors were also addressed by Mayor of Sarajevo, Samir Avdić, who emphasized the importance of opening space for conversations about prejudice and mutual understanding.“Sarajevo is a city of encounters and diversity. Exhibitions like this remind us how important it is to listen to one another, build trust, and create a society in which everyone has their place.” The exhibition includes video interviews, film excerpts, archival media materials, drawings, and photographs by the legendary Sarajevo photographer Milomir Kovačević Strašni. Samir Omerefendić, Head of the Secretariat of the UN Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) in Bosnia and Herzegovina, highlighted that the voices of young people are essential for building a more open and inclusive society.“Through initiatives such as this exhibition, young people not only challenge stereotypes and discrimination, but also open space for dialogue and mutual understanding — which lies at the very core of the efforts of the UN Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund, supporting initiatives that give young people the space to raise important social issues and contribute to strengthening trust among communities.”Ivana Roso, mentor of the creative team, encouraged visitors to continue reflecting on the exhibition’s message.“I hope that even after this exhibition you will continue reminding society that peace is not only the absence of conflict, but that it begins where equality, dignity and equal rights exist for all its members.” The exhibition is part of the “Furaj mir” programme, which connects young people across Bosnia and Herzegovina and empowers them to use creativity and art to open space for dialogue, understanding, and peacebuilding in their communities. The programme is part of the PEACESTORY project, implemented with support from the UN Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund by the War Childhood Museum, Mozaik Foundation, the Centre for Educational Initiatives Step by Step, and the Secondary School Students Association in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

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Press Release

11 March 2026

UN Resident Coordinator visits Banja Luka to advance cooperation on reforms and sustainable development

She met with Republika Srpska Prime Minister Savo Minić, reaffirming the UN’s commitment to continued cooperation with authorities across Bosnia and Herzegovina on reforms and sustainable development priorities. The meeting confirmed continued cooperation between the UN and RS institutions within the 2026-2030 UN Cooperation Framework for BiH, adopted by all levels of government in BiH. It was noted that UN’s priorities for the coming period include inclusive and green growth, human capital development, effective and accountable institutions, and social cohesion.As part of her mission to Banja Luka, Spence, together with UNDP Resident Representative Renaud Meyer, also held meetings with the RS ministries responsible for industry, energy and mining; health; finance; and justice. Discussions focused on strengthening cooperation with UN to support sustainable development and improve services for citizens, including through work on energy transition, economic opportunities, public finance, health and good governance. The Resident Coordinator also met with RS Ministry of Family, Youth and Sports to discuss youth policy and demographic challenges. She reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to expanding opportunities for young people, including through the forthcoming Youth Empowerment Accelerator. The visit highlighted continued UN engagement with institutions in RS and across Bosnia and Herzegovina to support reforms and deliver tangible benefits for communities.

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Press Release

11 February 2026

The Citizens’ Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina Process Begins

This process is based on the random selection of citizens as a representative sample of the population, with the aim of familiarizing them with relevant information, exchanging opinions, and providing recommendations on specific issues. Such an approach enables thorough analysis of topics, the exchange of diverse perspectives, and the formulation of recommendations grounded in reasoned deliberation.Within this Citizens’ Assembly, implemented through the EU‑funded Možemo Bolje initiative, selected participants will explore ways to improve the environment that fosters reconciliation, strengthens trust, and promotes social cohesion in Bosnia and Herzegovina - one of the priorities of the EU accession process. In doing so, the Citizens’ Assembly creates space for the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina to directly express their views on issues of shared interest and shape recommendations important for their future as well as for the country’s European path.Membership in the Citizens' Assembly is open to all adults in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Among those who apply, a group of 80 participants will be selected through stratified random sampling to reflect the country’s demographic diversity according to criteria such as gender, age, geographic representation, education, language, and ethnic background. This method ensures the representativeness and independence of the process, as well as the recommendations that emerge from it.Selected citizens, supported by independent facilitators and international experts, will have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with relevant information, hear different perspectives, ask questions, and jointly consider possible recommendations. After deliberation, participants will agree on recommendations that will be submitted to the Joint Committee on European Integration, on whose behalf Chairperson Zdenko Ćosić signed the invitation letter to citizens.The aim of this process is to strengthen transparency, trust, and citizen participation in democratic processes through open and structured dialogue that contributes to understanding diverse views and perspectives in BiH society and reinforces the connection between citizens and institutions.The project “Empowering Trust and Cohesion in Communities in Bosnia and Herzegovina (Možemo Bolje)” is jointly implemented by the European Union in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the United Nations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Council of Europe Office in Sarajevo. More information about the process, participation, and methodology is available on the official website of the Citizens’ Assembly: www.skupstinagradjana.ba.

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