Sarajevo, July 12, 2023 – The Office of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Bosnia and Herzegovina, in partnership with the Ministry of Science, Higher Education and Youth of Sarajevo Canton and under the auspices and guidance from Prime Minister of Government of Sarajevo Canton, is pleased to announce its latest, transformative initiative aimed at creating a brighter future for young people in Sarajevo by seeking to empower, improve, accelerate and stabilize opportunities and chances for the young people in Sarajevo Canton.
The Conference "Creating a bright future for young people in Sarajevo" was held today in Sarajevo which gathered some 40 decision-makers, representatives of the governmental and non-governmental sector and the academic community - as well as the young people from Sarajevo Canton. Participants shared their invaluable experiences and visions for the future, contributing to joint efforts to improve, accelerate and stabilize opportunities and chances for young people in Sarajevo Canton.
“Today marks a momentous occasion as we gather to launch the development of Sarajevo Canton's Youth Strategy for 2024-2028. In collaboration with the Sarajevo Canton authorities and the UNFPA, the UN firmly believes in the power of our youth as drivers of positive change. The strategy embodies our shared commitment to nurturing this potential”, stressed at the event Ingrid Macdonald, UN Resident Coordinator in BiH.
The Youth Strategy aims to enhance the quality of life for young people in Sarajevo Canton by providing an evidence-based, comprehensive plan. It focuses on meeting actual needs of youth and facilitating their growth and development through support mechanisms and various initiatives. The strategy includes a broad spectrum of initiatives, including promoting leadership, enhancing youth participation, and fostering community contributions to peace.
Pavle Krstić, Minister of Science, Higher Education and Youth of Sarajevo Canton said: “The Strategy is being shaped by numerous expert working groups, and is based on data collected through a comprehensive survey. These groups consist of seasoned professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, guaranteeing a high-quality and effective strategy. This two-pronged approach combining robust data and expert knowledge ensures that the Youth Strategy will meet the needs of the young population and facilitate their growth and development”.
“To support this strategy, UNFPA is launching the Youth Peace Policy Lab to co-create policy solutions. This initiative will foster a mentor-guided collaboration between students and experts to co-create viable policy solutions. Moreover, UNFPA is set to introduce the Youth Index, a pivotal tool for comprehending and catering to the unique needs of young people in the Western Balkans. This index will measure crucial aspects of development, using existing public data to ensure cost-effectiveness, constant updates, and broad accessibility” said John Kennedy Mosoti UNFPA Representative in BiH.
“Our vision is to make Sarajevo Canton a place where every young person has the opportunity to thrive. We are committed to breaking down any barriers that prevent youth from accessing the support they need”, said Nihad Uk, Prime Minister of Sarajevo Canton.
Youth participation is integral to this strategy. Young people can engage through youth consultations and the Youth Peace Policy Lab. I am happy to say that over 1000 young people were included in a survey and we, young people are encouraged to voice our ideas and opinions, as well as to contribute to community peace-building efforts, and take up leadership roles, said Sajra Kustura, young activist.
This cooperation happens under the regional United Nations initiative ‘Youth 4 Inclusion, Equality & Trust’, financially supported by the UN Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund. The initiative empowers young people to engage in constructive narratives, strengthen intercultural dialogue, inclusion, gender equality and create mutual understanding and trust in the Western Balkans. Collaboratively, UNDP, UNFPA, UNESCO, UN Women, and relevant partners from the public sector, media, civil society, academia and culture – are working together with youth to increase comprehension and respect for diversity in the region.
