Following similar meetings in Sarajevo and Tuzla, young people and city councilors in Mostar are strengthening their dialogue and cooperation through the “Councilors for Youth” platform.
The second meeting of the “Councilors for Youth” platform was hosted by the Youth Council of the City of Mostar. Councilors and representatives of the Youth Council gathered for an open conversation to share perspectives, identify common challenges, and discuss needs and proposals to improve the position of young people in the city. The meeting took place in a positive and constructive atmosphere, thanks in part to the fact that many participants already knew each other and had collaborated before.
City councilors Slavko Zovko (HRS), Nadina Vujnović (HDZ BiH), and Mirza Lalić (SDA) took part, alongside Youth Council representatives Sara Kazazić, Monika Bazina, Anes Beganović, and Marko Kvesić.
One of the central topics of discussion was the need to establish a Youth Center in Mostar. This initiative is included in the city’s Youth Strategy, but has yet to be implemented. Youth voiced concern about the lack of an accompanying action plan, which is crucial for turning the Strategy into actual results. They stressed that the Strategy must not remain just an empty commitment; real impact starts with clear steps and adequate resources. The envisioned Youth Center, proposed as a public institution funded by the City, would be a vital space for youth engagement, learning, and activism, building on a vibrant youth scene in Mostar.
As in other cities, the group highlighted the shortage of year-round cultural and recreational activities. One suggestion was to organize youth sports games, which would bring young people together and promote healthy lifestyles.
Youth entrepreneurship was another key topic. Councilors shared plans for providing financial and mentorship support to young people launching their own businesses, particularly in areas where legal and administrative assistance is often needed.
Education and employment were also high on the agenda. Both youth representatives and councilors agreed that, beyond improving the quality of education and school infrastructure, young people need more support when choosing their career paths. They emphasized the importance of promoting high-demand professions, offering scholarships in those fields, and developing internship opportunities in public and private sectors so that students can gain practical experience while still in school.
Environmental protection was another important issue. With Mostar increasingly affected by extreme heat and wildfires in the summer months, long-term solutions are urgently needed. Participants showed strong interest in councilor Nadina Vujnović’s proposed initiative, “Adopt a Tree,” which would involve children and youth in planting and caring for trees. The aim is to raise environmental awareness, build a sense of responsibility, and actively contribute to nature conservation. Attendees agreed that projects like this should become a permanent part of local environmental policy.
All participants agreed that collaboration between youth organizations and elected representatives is essential for meaningful change. The meeting reaffirmed that strong partnerships can be built with goodwill and open dialogue, and solid foundations laid for youth policies that address real needs.
The Councilors for Youth platform continues to bring together young people and local authorities across BiH, strengthening cooperation and fostering communities where youth have the space, voice, and opportunities they deserve.
