The floods that hit some regions of Bosnia and Herzegovina in October 2024, especially the places of Donja Jablanica, Kiseljak, Konjic, Kreševo ​​and Fojnica, caused enormous damage, and women were particularly affected. In addition to losing their homes, they faced an increased risk of sexual and gender-based violence, which is a common occurrence in crises. Many of them lost their homes and livelihoods, which makes them particularly vulnerable.

“The floods brought emotional stress and increased the burden on women - from caring for their families to rebuilding their homes. In crisis settings, violence becomes an even bigger problem”, says Ms. Elvedina Alić, president of the Women's Association “Nera” from Konjic.

From Basic Assistance to Ongoing Support

The UNFPA BiH, in cooperation with the Red Cross of the BiH Federation, responded quickly by distributing dignity kits.

“The distribution of the dignity kits was a concrete help at a time when women, regardless of the losses, were still forced to take care of their basic hygiene and health. It was something that truly showed solidarity and ensured the minimum conditions for a dignified life. However, this is only the first step”, explains Ms. Emina Husagić, Program Manager at the UNFPA BiH.

The UNFPA, with financial support from the European Union, also facilitated the opening of the Women and Girls Center in Konjic. It is an important place where comprehensive support is provided to women – ranging from psychological assistance to education on sexual and reproductive health. The Center will also focus on violence prevention and provision of a safe space for women who have experienced trauma.

As part of its efforts to provide comprehensive support to women and girls affected by the crisis, the UNFPA and the EU are providing psychosocial support and gender-based violence prevention activities. Recognizing psychological support as a key need of the affected female population, the EU and UNFPA seek to empower women and girls in dealing with trauma and challenges, and to contribute to the creation of a safer environment. Among other things, as part of the “16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence” campaign, the UNFPA is implementing various activities with women.

“The engagement of a female gynecologist twice a month is especially important, when we will include a large number of women in our workshops and lectures. We are especially happy to be able to respond to the needs of young girls with the desire to talk about sexual and reproductive health so that they have the opportunity to grow into healthy, happy women who will enjoy their healthy bodies in their future lives. The role of the female psychologist is also important. That was of such crucial importance at this moment”, Ms. Alić emphasizes.

The Center also provides occupational therapies that help women to relieve stress. The Center's activities have a visible impact on the community. Special focus is placed on women from marginalized groups, such as mothers of children with disabilities.

“Thanks to the UNFPA and the European Union, our dream of opening the center has become a reality. This is a safe place where women can identify their problems and find solutions”, Ms. Alić concludes.

The UNFPA, in partnership with the Association “Snaga žene”, and in cooperation with the Association “Nera”, continues to implement the “16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence” campaign, raising awareness about women’s rights and violence prevention. The Women and Girls Center in Konjic symbolizes the strength of the community and hope for a better tomorrow.