SARAJEVO, 15 November 2022 – Today around the world we mark the milestone of the global population reaching 8 billion.  People live longer, healthier lives. But progress is selective, and not everyone has access to the same improvements in healthcare and opportunities. This day is also a rallying cry for the global community to commit to building a world in which all 8 billion of us can thrive equally.

In the margins of a two-day conference on Building Youth-friendly Cities in a World of 8 Billion”, organized by the UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund in collaboration with the Mayor of Sarajevo and Associations of Municipalities of Bosnia and Herzegovina, a mural dedicated to the world population reaching 8 billion was unveiled on the building of the elementary school Vladimir Skaric in Sarajevo. 

Florence Bauer, UNFPA’s Regional Director Eastern Europe and Central Asia said: “Turn the 8 on its side and it is the symbol for infinity. We must make sure that a world of 8 billion people can also mean a world of infinite possibilities. The mural captures this idea beautifully, and I wish to thank Obojena Klapa team for creating this inspiring artwork.” 

“I hope it will serve as an inspiration for the children in this school and the citizens of Sarajevo as they imagine a better future for this planet.”

“Our world is more demographically diverse than ever before.” 

“Many countries in the region are facing rapid demographic changes due to emigration and low fertility rates, hence local communities have an important role in creating an environment that will allow young people to confidently plan their future. Moreover, building cities adapted to young people is a key element in building a society that will be more resistant to demographic changes”, said Benjamina Karic, Mayor of Sarajevo. 

"The mural entitled ‘Together We Blossom’ represents our individual uniqueness and our infinite potential when we act in unity and solidarity. The flower bud in the shape of the number 8, which symbolizes infinity, also carries within itself both the diversity and uniqueness of every person in the world. The city in the background is but an image of the space in which we get together and where we explore and reach our individual and collective potentials.  Together we can do anything!", said Adna Mušlija from Obojena Klapa.