Sarajevo, 16 October 2024 – UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Directorate for European Integration (DEI) are pleased to announce a new partnership dedicated to advancing Bosnia and Herzegovina's progress towards European Union (EU) integration.

The partnership between UNFPA and DEI aims to improve public understanding and information about the process of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s accession to the European Union, especially in the context of gender equality, health, youth rights, art, culture and social cohesion. By working together the UNFPA and the DEI gain additional support in shaping inclusive policies that reflect the complex socio-economic landscape of the country, while increasing transparency and fostering greater public awareness of the EU integration process.

The cooperation is formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed in Sarajevo today.
UNFPA Representative Justine Coulson stated: “By combining our strengths, UNFPA and DEI are committed to empowering communities, building institutional capacities, and fostering sustainable growth. Our joint efforts will contribute directly to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), Goal 5 (Gender Equality), and Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities), ultimately helping Bosnia and Herzegovina to achieve its long-term aspirations.”

“The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding will hopefully mark the beginning of a long-term successful cooperation”, said Elvira Habota, director of the BiH Directorate for European Integration. "Our goal is to promote European values and the impact of the European integration process on the daily lives of citizens through joint activities, and to strengthen the capacities and knowledge of various target groups, with a focus on youth, through networking, workshops, training, lectures, and other events." 

The partnership will kick off with a series of joint events designed to engage communities, raise awareness of key issues, and celebrate Bosnia and Herzegovina’s progress. These activities will include workshops, cultural events, and public forums focused on promoting gender equality, encouraging youth involvement, and increasing awareness of the EU integration process.