What is the role of young people in the European integration process? How much can local authorities contribute to faster progress of Bosnia and Herzegovina towards membership in the European Union? These were some of the key issues discussed at the event “Local for Europe: Young politicians on the road to the EU”, which gathered young politicians from all parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Europe is not somewhere out there – Europe is right here
In March 2024, the European Council decided to open accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina, signaling the start of a lengthy and complex journey of aligning the country with European standards. The conditions and priorities facing BiH present numerous challenges, but also offer opportunities—particularly for young politicians, who can make a significant contribution to these reforms with their ideas and initiatives.
The training gathered young, politically active individuals from across the country, all eager to contribute to local communities with their ideas and initiatives. Through interactive sessions moderated by Anida Šabanović, an expert with extensive experience in European integration and policy-making, participants explored the role of young people in the European integration process and the challenges they face.
Dženana Hodžić, Political Advisor from the Delegation of the European Union to Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Office of the European Union Special Representative in BiH, introduced participants to the EU Delegation to BiH and shared examples of good practices from countries in the region that have successfully navigated the EU accession process—practices that young politicians in BiH can apply in their future work. A special focus of the training was Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU path, the challenges that lie ahead, and how European policies influence local communities. Participants had the opportunity to discuss these topics with Darija Ramljak, Assistant Director in the Division for Integration Strategy and Policies at the Directorate for European Integration. During this lecture, participants learned about the work of the Directorate for European Integration. They received a comprehensive overview of key events in the relationship between BiH and the European Union, along with detailed explanations of the obligations and priorities that our country must meet to join the European Union.
“The number of young people, and other groups, who are informed about EU integration is alarmingly low. These two days, thanks to the Institute, were truly inspiring. We not only gained valuable insights into the negotiation process but also became more convinced of the importance of everyone’s involvement in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s path to European Union membership.” Tarik Halilović, city councilor in Visoko, noted, “It’s important to acknowledge that local communities will play a crucial role in implementing a large number of reforms necessary to meet the criteria and bring the process to a conclusion. The involvement of everyone, especially us young people, in the decision-making process will be crucial in the coming years of EU integration.“
To provide another perspective, Alen Gudalo, program coordinator at the Sarajevo Open Center, presented the Alternative Report on Bosnia and Herzegovina’s progress toward EU membership, developed by the European Integration Monitoring Initiative. During this presentation, important questions were raised regarding the benefits that the European Union offers to Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as the contributions BiH can make to the European Union in return.
Networking as the key to success
In addition to gaining new insights, participants had the chance to connect with young leaders from across the country, share experiences, and lay the groundwork for future collaboration. Informal conversations and team activities strengthened both friendships and professional connections, which will undoubtedly lead to many collaborative initiatives in the future.
“This program was an exceptional opportunity for learning, networking and sharing experiences with young politicians from different backgrounds. Through interactive sessions and discussions with experts, we gained a deeper understanding of EU integration and the role of youth in that process. It is inspiring to see so many motivated people willing to cooperate on driving change in their communities,” said Vanja Tanasić, a councilor in the Doboj City Assembly.
What next?
The event “Local for Europe” was just the beginning. Young politicians now have the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned in their communities, connect with decision-makers, and launch initiatives that will drive reforms. The Institute for Youth Development KULT remains dedicated to supporting them on this journey.
During these two days, it was repeatedly emphasized how much work remains to be done on Bosnia and Herzegovina’s European path, but both lecturers and guests acknowledged the potential of young leaders. Young politicians understood that through gradual cooperation, they could play a key role in contributing to the country’s success on its path to EU membership.
Young people concluded that the EU accession process is as important as membership itself, with all its challenges and opportunities for further development. With new knowledge and connections, they are ready to face these challenges and bring a fresh perspective to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s European integration.
The mayor of Sanski Most, Mensur Seferović, offered a succinct conclusion: “BiH, its citizens, and especially young people, share the goals, values, and principles of the EU and are committed to developing a society based on the values and achievements of European democracies. One of the main strategic goals of BiH is to achieve full membership in the European Union. The citizens of BiH must recognize that European integration is not just a technical alignment of laws but a process crucial for the country’s political, economic, and social stability.”
The Institute for Youth Development KULT continues to support young leaders, recognizing their role in bringing fresh perspectives and driving concrete changes on Bosnia and Herzegovina’s path to EU membership.
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