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Congratulations to North Macedonia on joining SEPA – A step closer to European Integration

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

North Macedonia advanced on its European integration path by joining the geographical scope of the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) following the positive decision by the European Payments Council (EPC). This is a practical example of the impact of the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, an EU initiative to accelerate the socio-economic integration of the Western Balkans into the EU, including through progressive access to certain areas of the EU single market based on alignment with the EU acquis Communautaire.

As a result of the European Payments Council decision, the payment service providers of North Macedonia will have the possibility to adhere to the various SEPA schemes which are managed by the EPC.

This step paves the way for North Macedonia to facilitate financial transfers in euro and reduce the cost and processing time of these transactions between its citizens, businesses, and other SEPA members. It is therefore contributing to sustained economic growth.

The European Commission will continue to support the preparation of North Macedonia’s payment service providers and the country’s further alignment with the EU acquis in the area of financial services.

Background

The European Payments Council (EPC) is an independent, international not-for-profit association formed of 83 members who are payment service providers (PSPs) or associations of PSPs. The EPC was created in 2002 by the European banking industry to develop European instruments for electronic euro payments. Today, close to 4,000 banks and other payment service providers participate in SEPA schemes.

In close dialogue with the stakeholder community, the EPC has developed, among other things, “schemes,” such as the SEPA Credit Transfer, the SEPA Instant Credit Transfer, and the SEPA Direct Debit scheme. These schemes, which facilitated over 50 billion transactions in 36 countries last year, are regularly updated and enhanced by the EPC to help realize easy cross-border euro payments.

More Information

Factsheet on the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans EPC press release on Moldova & North Macedonia

STEMing the Roots of Science

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

Edlira Dibrani, Young European Ambassador from Kosovo

The underrepresentation of girls in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) remains a challenge globally, including in Kosovo. While progress has been made in encouraging more girls to pursue careers in science and technology, the numbers still indicate that further support and systemic efforts are needed. The European Union (EU) has been a strong advocate for gender equality in education and career opportunities, particularly in STEM fields. In celebration of the International Day of Girls in Science, we had the privilege of hosting the Deputy Ambassador of the EU in Kosovo, Ms. Eva Palatova, at the Finnish School of Kosovo. The event provided an opportunity to discuss the importance of education, mentorship, and practical experiences in shaping the future of girls in STEM.

A crucial element in addressing gender disparities in STEM is education. Finland’s education system serves as a model in this regard, fostering an inclusive and encouraging learning environment for all students, regardless of gender. Finland has long been recognized for its progressive approach to education, emphasizing creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

During her address, Ms. Eva Palatova highlighted key EU initiatives designed to support young students, particularly girls, in their academic and professional aspirations. One such initiative is the Erasmus program, which provides students with the opportunity to study abroad, experience different academic environments, and engage with leading institutions in science and technology. Another significant program is the Young Cell Scheme, which offers scholarships to outstanding students in Kosovo to pursue higher education in EU countries. These programs not only enhance academic knowledge but also equip students with international exposure, broadening their perspectives and increasing their competitiveness in the global job market.

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Ms. Palatova also emphasized the importance of gaining practical experience alongside formal education. Encouraging students to engage in internships, research projects, and hands-on learning opportunities allows them to refine their interests and develop essential skills. Practical experience helps students understand the real-world applications of their studies, making their education more meaningful and impactful. She pointed out that by integrating such experiences into their academic journey, girls in STEM can better prepare for future careers and navigate the professional world with confidence.

One of the most inspiring moments of Ms. Palatova’s speech was her reference to Marie Curie, the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and a pioneering scientist in the field of radioactivity. Marie Curie’s remarkable journey serves as a testament to perseverance, intelligence, and resilience in the face of societal barriers. Her story continues to inspire young girls to break stereotypes and push boundaries in the scientific world. Ms. Palatova also acknowledged the contributions of Albanian women in STEM, such as Mira Murati, a leading figure in artificial intelligence and one of the key minds behind ChatGPT. Highlighting such role models is crucial in demonstrating that success in STEM is not limited by gender or geography.

In addition to the significance of role models, Ms. Palatova spoke about the value of internships as a means of professional growth. Internships provide students with real-world experience, allowing them to develop practical skills, build professional networks, and understand workplace dynamics. Through internships, students not only refine their expertise but also gain insights into potential career paths, enabling them to make informed decisions about their futures.

The event served as a reminder that the future for girls in STEM is bright, but continued effort is needed to ensure that they have the support, encouragement, and resources necessary to succeed. The EU’s commitment to education, coupled with local initiatives, plays a crucial role in fostering an environment where girls can thrive in science and technology. As educators, mentors, and advocates, we must continue to provide opportunities that empower young girls to pursue their passions in STEM. By doing so, we contribute to a more inclusive and innovative future, where talent and ambition are nurtured, regardless of gender.

In conclusion, as we marked the International Day of Girls in Science, we reaffirmed our commitment to supporting and encouraging young women in STEM. With access to quality education, mentorship, and practical experiences, girls can break barriers and make significant contributions to science and technology. The journey may not always be easy, but with the right support systems in place, they can achieve remarkable success. It is essential that we continue to work together—students, educators, policymakers, and the broader community—to ensure that every girl has the opportunity to explore, excel, and lead in the world of STEM.

Boosting creative skills in the Western Balkans

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A new initiative is set to transform the creative and cultural industries (CCIs) in the Western Balkans by equipping professionals with the skills needed for sustainable growth and regional cooperation. The Regional Skills Partnership (RSP) for the Western Balkans, led by Association Kulturanova (Serbia) and supported by key cultural organizations from Montenegro and Slovenia, aims to foster innovation, bridge skill gaps, and drive economic development through cultural and creative industries. A creative boost for the regional economy The creative industries in the Western Balkans have the potential to drive economic growth, cultural exchange, and innovation. However, challenges such as limited skill development, weak infrastructure, and restricted access to funding and markets have hindered their full potential. The RSP is stepping in to address these challenges by focusing on capacity-building, digital and green skills development, and stronger networking opportunities. This initiative aligns with the EU’s Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, reinforcing the importance of creative industries as a key driver for economic transformation. By integrating culture and creativity into economic strategies, the partnership seeks to position the Western Balkans as a competitive and innovative region within the European cultural landscape. Bridging the skills gap The RSP’s approach is based on a systematic collaboration between institutions, businesses, and creative practitioners to develop practical training opportunities and create sustainable career pathways in the cultural sector. Some of the key actions include:
  • Developing digital, green, and communication skills to align with global industry trends.
  • Hosting training programs, workshops, and networking sessions to enhance professional skills and innovation.
  • Providing financial and market access support for creative entrepreneurs and organizations.
  • Strengthening policy recommendations to improve the regulatory environment for creative businesses.
At the heart of this initiative is the HUB, a collaborative incubator designed to facilitate training, mentorship, and cross-sector partnerships. By 2026, the partnership aims to establish the HUB as a regional center for creative skills development, connecting talent from across the Western Balkans. The future is creative With 30 organizations already participating and plans to financially support at least 15 projects, the RSP is setting a strong foundation for the future of the region’s creative industries. This initiative is more than just a skills-building effort—it is a movement towards a more sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive creative economy in the Western Balkans. The Western Balkans’ cultural wealth has long been a source of identity and innovation. Now, with the right skills and support, the creative industries can play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s economic and social future. For more information about the Regional Skills Partnership for the Western Balkans, visit Kulturanova.

Stronger together: North Macedonia boosts security against illegal weapons

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At the end of January 2025, the Ministry of Internal Affairs of North Macedonia received equipment to enhance crime scene investigations involving firearms.

“This equipment will serve to more efficiently combat illegal trade and possession of firearms, ensure safe control over the legality of small arms possession, and increase the security of citizens across Europe”, stated the EU Delegation in North Macedonia.

Since the armed conflicts of 2001, many of the country’s residents have illegally possessed light weaponry. Police reports frequently indicate that such weapons are found during routine inspections, often alongside narcotics, in fights, smuggling operations, or domestic violence incidents. The OSCE, UNDP and other international organisations running regional projects to raise awareness about the dangers of illegal weapons and strengthen control over their possession warn that such weapons pose “a threat to citizens’ security, public safety and play a significant role in domestic violence, murders and gender-based violence, while also contributing to crime and instability worldwide”.

North Macedonia appears in international reports and analyses as “a country on the route of illegal arms trade”.

“There is a lot of weaponry in North Macedonia. I don’t know if it’s legal or not, but it is used and threatens public safety. People fire guns a lot at weddings, for example, and there have been injuries and victims from stray bullets. These aren’t just single shots but bursts of gunfire that disturb entire cities. The Ministry of Internal Affairs regularly organizes campaigns and appeals to citizens, but to no avail. I don’t think the public is fully aware of how much illegal weaponry is in the country, but they do know there’s a lot and that there are risks!”, says Suzana Nikolić, a journalist for Kumanovo news.

The importance of controlling illegal weapons became even more evident after the mass shooting in Montenegro in January 2025, where thirteen people, including two children, were killed.

According to Small Arms Survey estimates from 2018, there are over six million firearms in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Kosovo—approximately 30 weapons per 100 inhabitants. Nearly 90% of these are in civilian hands, exceeding the global average of around 75%. It is believed that between 500,000 and 1.6 million households in the region possess firearms.

A study by the Southeast European Small Arms and Light Weapons Control Center (SEESAC) indicates that nearly 30% of victims of illegal firearms are women.

The Balkan Security Network reports that “the main land route for arms smuggling in the region runs through Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Austria, Hungary, and Slovakia. The maritime route to Italy originates from Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania, while a hybrid route exists between Albania, North Macedonia, and Greece. The region also serves as a transit point for weapons from Turkey, with Bulgaria being the primary entry point”.

Citing research by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime experts warn that “after the war in Ukraine ends, Balkan criminal groups could exploit established smuggling networks and infrastructure to distribute fresh weaponry from the East”.

Upon receiving the EU-donated equipment, North Macedonia’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Panče Toškovski, stated that the fight against illegal weapons is a top priority for the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

“The implementation of this project is of the utmost importance for the Ministry of Internal Affairs, as it reaffirms our commitment to achieving the objectives of the Roadmap for Small Arms and Light Weapons Control. In particular, it supports the adoption of a legal framework for arms control that will be fully aligned with the EU legislative framework and the standardised regulatory framework for explosives control in the region, both in the Western Balkans and beyond”, said Toškovski upon receiving the donation.

The $200,000 donation is part of the “Enhancing Forensic and Crime Scene Investigation Capacities for Strengthening Criminal Justice Control over Small Arms and Light Weapons” project implemented by UNDP under the Roadmap for Small Arms and Light Weapons Control in the Western Balkans, of which North Macedonia is a signatory. The project is funded by the United Nations Multilateral Trust Fund for Small Arms and Light Weapons in the Western Balkans, supported by Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands, France, the United Kingdom, and Norway, with backing from the European Union. The project aims to modernise forensic and crime scene investigation (CSI) units in North Macedonia to improve crime scene processing and evidence collection. This will enhance investigations, strengthen international evidence exchange, and increase the efficiency of the criminal justice system. The project will upgrade ballistic facilities and operations within the Ministry of the Interior’s Forensics Department, as well as enhance the analytical, technical, and investigative capabilities of CSI units. Additionally, it will incorporate a gender perspective focused on preventing gender-based violence by sensitising CSI staff and improving the tracking of domestic violence cases involving firearms through a dedicated module in North Macedonia’s Police Information Management System.

The donation includes universal and specialised investigation kits, cameras, computers, and hardware for crime scene analysis. Forensics and crime scene investigations play a crucial role in the criminal justice system when dealing with firearm-related cases. Through ballistic analysis, footprint and fingerprint examinations, forensic and investigative teams provide key evidence that helps solve crimes and prevent future violence.

Sava Dokmanovic

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA of the month.

YEA of the Month January 2025

My name is Sava and I am from Belgrade. I am currently enrolled in the Japanese Studies Programme at the University of Belgrade. I have taken part in many projects, be that the individual or ones ran by different organizations, such as ‘Climate Heroes’ by WWF. In that project, we had the opportunity to start our own initiatives to raise awareness of the climate crisis. Our team managed to incorporate art with the theme of climate change in the form of an art exhibition. I have also been an active member of a few student organizations. One of them was AIESEC where I helped organize conferences dedicated to youth mobility. I’m also a member of the Organisation of Serbian Students Abroad (OSSI) aiming to help and create opportunities for Serbian students.
I believe that the motivation for change is an important but mostly a short-term boost. What we need is drive – something we believe in to give us a push and make us remember our values.

First eco-industrial park in the Western Balkans

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The first Eco-Industrial Park in the Western Balkans is set to be developed in Šabac, Serbia, thanks to a partnership between the European Union (EU), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and local authorities. This milestone initiative aims to accelerate sustainable industrial development, aligning with EU environmental standards and the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans.

Backed by a €3.6 million EU grant through the Western Balkans Investment Framework, the programme will demonstrate the feasibility of EIPs through four pilot projects, showcasing how industries can cut pollution, optimize resources, and boost economic performance. The Šabac Greenfield EIP will serve as a flagship model for low-carbon industrial development, helping the region transition away from fossil fuels and strengthen its competitiveness in EU markets.

“Hosting Serbia’s first Eco-Industrial Park is a proud moment for our city. This initiative strengthens our local economy and sets a precedent for sustainable growth,” said Aleksandar Pajić, Mayor of Šabac.

The EIP initiative, led by IFC in partnership with the EU, seeks to attract sustainable investments and integrate the region into European value chains. Alongside pilot projects, it also includes developing policy frameworks and engaging the private sector to drive investments in green technologies.

“This project is a major step in the Western Balkans’ green transition,” said Plamena Halacheva, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Serbia. “By launching the Eco-Industrial Park initiative, we are driving innovation and advancing the circular economy as part of our commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.”

Scaling Up Sustainable Industry

The Šabac Greenfield EIP is one of two pilot projects in Serbia, alongside MIND Park Brownfield EIP, which focuses on retrofitting an existing industrial zone with sustainable solutions. In total, five pilot projects across the Western Balkans will serve as benchmarks for the region’s sustainable industrial transformation.

“Together with the EU and local authorities, we are building a scalable model that unlocks long-term investment opportunities while addressing environmental challenges,” said Nicolas Marquier, IFC Regional Manager for the Western Balkans.

This collaboration highlights the Western Balkans’ potential to lead in sustainable industry and attract green investments, paving the way for a cleaner, more competitive economy.

EIB Global channelled €693 million to the countries of the Western Balkans in 2024

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  • EIB Global invested €527 million in loans for new projects, mobilising nearly €3.1 billion in new investment, supported by €166 million in grants 
  • New projects will accelerate the green transition and promote the competitiveness of economies. 
  • The Bank continued its support for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, reaching a record €213 million in signed agreements in 2024 
  In 2024, the European Investment Bank Group (EIB Global) financing for new projects reached €693 million in loans and grants for the countries of the Western Balkans for energy security, sustainable transport, climate action, digital and human capital development. Out of these funds, €527 million have been signed in loans, €164 million in EU grants under the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) and €2 million in grants under the EIB’s Economic Resilience Initiative. The largest share of new signatures was allocated to sustainable transport (43%), clean energy projects (31%, a record) and the private sector (20%).  “We are fully committed to supporting all countries in the region on their path to EU integration” remarked EIB Vice-President Robert de Groot. “Achieving higher convergence requires significant reforms and investments, which is why combined financial and technical support under the Team Europe umbrella provides a coherent, continuous and extensive support. The latest Growth Plan exemplifies initiatives that can accelerate market integration, economic growth, and EU accession ambitions.”    Supporting energy projects  In the energy sector, the Bank provided €213 million in loans for projects such as the rehabilitation of several large hydropower plants and the installation of advanced electricity meters in Serbia, as well as the construction of one of the largest solar photovoltaic plant near Pristina in Kosovo. The plant will address the energy needs of over 29 000 households and cut 174 000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually.   “As the EU Climate Bank, we have intensified our efforts to promote a green transition in each and every country and are steadfast in our commitment to support the decarbonisation of regional economies to ensure energy security and reduce environmental pollution,” said Vice-President De Groot.  The bank also made available  the Greening Financial Systems (GFS) advisory programme in North Macedonia and Albania to enhance national and local banks’ climate risk management practices and stimulate green investments among companies. Several EIB-financed projects benefited from technical assistance under the WBIF and the Joint Assistance to Support Projects in European Regions (JASPERS) advisory program. Since the signing of its third mandate in autumn 2023, JASPERS experts have been working on 32 advisory assignments across the Western Balkans, covering transport, water, energy, urban, and digital sectors.     Advancing sustainable connectivity   In 2024, EIB Global continued to support the transport sector with €295 million in new financing, for projects such as the rehabilitation of railway sections in Albania and Montenegro. These infrastructure improvements along the extended Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) will increase railway capacity, efficiency, and safety, promoting a shift from road to sustainable mobility and generally improve regional connectivity. The bank signed a €79 million EU grant for the construction of the section on the Corridor Vc in Bosnia and Herzegovina.    Driving job creation and climate action among regional companies  The bank invested €151 million to support the expansion of, and investments in innovation and clean energy projects among local companies, creating employment and economic growth in the region. Thanks to the first impact-based credit line, small businesses in the region have created new jobs, training and career development opportunities for people from vulnerable groups. In addition, under the EU’s “WB EDIF Guarantee Facility for SME Resilience”, the European Investment Fund, part of the EIB Group, provided guarantees to local banks, which are expected to unlock over €750 million worth of loans to some 13 000 small businesses, sustaining around 180 000 jobs.     Background information     About the EIB   The European Investment Bank is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives. EIB projects bolster competitiveness, drive innovation, promote sustainable development, enhance social and territorial cohesion, and support a just and swift transition to climate neutrality.    The EIB is one of the leading international financiers in the Western Balkans. For detailed information on the EIB’s activities in this region, visit www.eib.org/en/publications/the-eib-in-the-western-balkans.    About the EIF  The European Investment Fund (EIF) is part of the European Investment Bank Group. Its central mission is to support Europe’s micro, small and medium-sized businesses by helping them to access finance. The EIF designs and develops venture and growth capital, guarantees and microfinance instruments that specifically target this market segment. In this role, the EIF fosters EU objectives in support of innovation, research and development, entrepreneurship, growth and employment. For more information, see https://www.eif.org   

A chance for new friendships and lifelong experiences – Superschools Program

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“I believe that everyone should experience the Superschools exchange. This was the most important thing of this whole school year that happened to me,” said Milica Drobnjak, student of the Secondary Vocational School in Bijelo Polje, Montenegro, about her participation in one of the Superschools Program exchanges for students.

Committed to supporting the peacebuilding and reconciliation process through intercultural learning and dialogue among schools, students and their commitment, RYCO partnered with GIZ  to create the Superschools program.  The European Union, German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) backed RYCO and GIZ in this mission through their generous financial support. 

The Superschools program is designed to engage youths, teachers and schools as institutions. Schools from different parts of WB6 region can apply to become Superschools and form partnerships that create the way for them to implement school exchanges and participate in the program’s activities dedicated to their capacity building, networking and cooperation.

For young people, the Superschools program offers opportunities to travel and explore the region; Create new friendships and gain intercultural skills. The program provides the teachers with new experiences and perspectives; Opportunities for capacity building through RYCO’s thematic areas and project management trainings as well as the possibility to network with other like-minded teachers from the region.

Alma Deliu, a teacher at Sami Frashëri Gymnasium in Pristina, Kosovo backs this up when asked about her experience, “We believe that together we will not exchange only fun moments but also fruitful experiences for the future considering that even though we are two different cultures from the same region, we still have commonalities that bring us together in a peaceful and harmonious manner.” 

From 2021 when the project started until 2024, over the course of two open calls RYCO supported 77 bilateral partnerships of secondary schools from the WB6 region and facilitated the exchange of around over 1800 high school students through more than 150 organized exchanges. Throughout the program, over 300 high school teachers from the region strengthened their capacities through RYCO’s thematic areas, non-formal educational activities, and project management trainings. 

In this context — sharing a sentiment similar to Deliu from Pristina, Kosovo — Dušica Golubović, teacher at the Secondary Vocational School in Pirot, Serbia highlights the opportunities for professional growth presented by her participation in the Superschool Program activities. “This project is a fantastic opportunity for professional improvement for me, but at the same time, a test of my previous professional improvements which I had as a pedagogue and teacher in this school,” says Golubović. 

As of May 2024, RYCO has begun its new flagship program that brings opportunities for  high school students and teachers in the Western Balkans to connect and implement joint activities through the unique exchange scheme. The 90 secondary schools from the Western Balkans who are participating in its third Superschool exchange program, have been announced in August 2024 and their exchange activities are currently ongoing.

Emphasizing the cooperation with representative student bodies such as student parliaments — through its new 2024-2026 cycle — the Superschools Program will continue to provide young people with a genuine and impactful role in shaping their non-formal educational experience through activities’ planning and application design. Special attention in this new cycle will be dedicated to the Homestay concept focused on staying in hosting school student’s families. An experience proven to create stronger bonds and understanding between young people from the region. 

Girls Football Festival is more than just a game

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“After participating in the Girls Football Festival, I have newfound enthusiasm and a completely different perspective on my sporting future. The moments we enjoyed the most were when we played together, regardless of where we came from—we demonstrated the power of teamwork, support, and perseverance,” says Dalila Komarica from Sarajevo, a coach at the Women’s Football Club “Respekt.” She emphasizes that “this festival is not a celebration of victory, but of enjoyment on and off the field”.

“Respekt” was one of nine clubs that participated in the Girls Football Festival from January 24 to 26, 2025. The festival, held in Sarajevo, was organized by the Play Together Initiative (https://izi.ba/) and was hosted in Bosnia and Herzegovina for the first time after several years of being held in Vienna, in collaboration with the FairPlay Initiative, which operates under the Institute for International Cooperation and Development in Vienna.

“The festival provided us with invaluable lessons. We learned that victory is not just about results but about the process of learning, working, and growing. It highlighted the importance of an encouraging environment and a positive atmosphere. The GFF undoubtedly has a far-reaching impact on the development of young athletes and their coaches—by working in mixed teams, we had the opportunity to meet new friends, learn new skills, and exchange methodologies to expand our knowledge of coaching and team leadership,” says Dalila.

Edita Čavrk, a student at a medical high school in Sarajevo, is a member of the Women’s Football Club “Respekt.”

“Every girl at the festival tried something new, relaxed, and stepped out of her comfort zone. We had workshops that gave us insight into how unique each of us is and how we all contribute to our community in our own way—we matter. But the most beautiful part was excelling on the field, blending different playing styles, and creating something special. I feel that my confidence has grown; I can now realistically assess and appreciate my abilities, and I hope to apply everything I’ve learned to continue developing both as a person and as an athlete,” Edita tells WeBalkans. She emphasizes that she can’t wait for the next festival.

A member of the organizing team, Mirna Hrapović from the Play Together Initiative, explains that in previous years, teams from across the Western Balkans—Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro, Croatia, and Kosovo—participated in the festival, and they hope to continue this tradition. This year, Sarajevo hosted nine teams from Bosnia and Herzegovina (Zenica, Orašje, Gornji Vakuf, Pale) and Montenegro (Bijelo Polje, Berane, and Podgorica), with 150 participants, most of whom were female athletes aged 13 to 15.

“Experience shows that this age group is ideal to work with because they are at a crossroads in life, considering their future in sports, but mature enough to understand the concepts we communicate through accompanying workshops on human rights, discrimination, gender equality, mental health, and more,” says Hrapović. She stresses that IZI strives to ensure that everything they do has a broader impact and sees sports as a tool for social transformation.

“The idea is for participants to meet, break down prejudices, and overcome questions like whether football is a game for girls. Year after year, we see that while they may be reserved at first, after the initial activities, they play as if they have known each other their whole lives,” says Hrapović, noting that some girls have even gone on to play for their national teams after participating in previous festivals.

The GFF also welcomed a team from the Berane Academy in Montenegro, where the women’s team has been active for just six months. In Sarajevo, 11 girls aged 12 to 14 played.

“The atmosphere was phenomenal, and it’s impossible to say what the girls enjoyed most, but I would highlight the tournament’s structure, where all clubs were mixed, creating new teams and fostering new friendships. This festival helps girls realize their importance, understand that football offers a lot, and recognize that the future of women’s football in Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina depends on them. With these young players, the future of our regional football is secure. The GFF also aids in socialization by offering important activities beyond the game, creating unforgettable memories,” says Aleksandar Raković, coach at Berane Academy. The club hopes that the next festival will be hosted in Montenegro and looks forward to welcoming their Bosnian friends in return.

The European Union explains that it is committed to gender equality in all aspects of life, including sports.

“Women’s football is becoming increasingly popular, but there are still barriers for girls and women in football, especially compared to men’s football. However, the EU funds many initiatives supporting increased female participation in sports, including the #BeInclusive EU Sports Awards, the HealthyLifestyle4All initiative, and the Erasmus+ Sport program. We are proud to have funded the first Girls Football Festival in Bosnia and Herzegovina because this initiative promotes equal opportunities, breaks stereotypes, and helps young women access sports on the same level as men. By giving girls more opportunities to play, learn, and connect, we support inclusivity and equal access. In the long run, this initiative aims to increase the visibility of women in football and helps building local networks that support female athletes,” says Ferdinand Koenig from the EU Delegation to BiH.

Judging by the festival and other ongoing efforts, the future of women’s sports looks promising—the Olympic Committee of Bosnia and Herzegovina has awarded a Team Support Grant of $100,000 to the Bosnia and Herzegovina Women’s Basketball National Team, with the next grant set to go to the Women’s Rugby National Team. Meanwhile, IZI announces that they will continue supporting the establishment of new women’s football clubs.

EU launches €5.5 million project to boost employment in Bosnia and Herzegovina

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A new EU project, EU4Employment in Bosnia and Herzegovina – Harnessing the Green and Digital Transitions, worth €5.5 million, aimed at improving employment opportunities for women, youth, the long-term unemployed, and vulnerable groups in Bosnia and Herzegovina was presented in Sarajevo today.

The project is expected to contribute to the upskilling and reskilling of at least 1,800 individuals and facilitate the direct employment of at least 600 people from the target groups. This will be achieved through employer-supported hiring, self-employment initiatives, or formalisation of existing jobs. Using grant funding, the initiative will be implemented by creating at least 20 active labour market programmes in Bosnia and Herzegovina, primarily targeting green and digitally intensive jobs.

Antonella Di Sandri, Head of Operations Section II (Economic Development, Natural Resources, Infrastructures) at the EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasized during today’s promotional event that the EU has been a long-standing partner in strengthening the employment sector in the country. “This new programme will address structural labour market challenges in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which disproportionately affect certain groups of citizens. Creating new jobs is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic necessity, because, by investing in people, we can help build a stronger and more resilient society. We will continue to fund targeted active labour market programmes to support employment and economic growth in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This project is yet another example of the EU’s commitment to the country’s progress and the shared future we are building together,” said Di Sandri.

During today’s promotional event, organised by the International Labour Organization (ILO), which is implementing the project, a panel discussion was held under the theme “How to effectively support those furthest from the labour market to seize the opportunities generated by the green and digital economy.” The discussion aimed to inform the public on how to access employment support funds within these sectors under the project.

“We are grateful to the European Union for recognising us as reliable partners in the country, ready to apply our expertise and long-standing global experience in managing large-scale projects to workforce preparation for jobs of the future. This includes taking advantage of opportunities presented by the green and digital transitions in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Over the next four years, we will work with partners and labour market institutions to make the green and digital transitions more inclusive and equitable, supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina in aligning with the EU acquis while also promoting decent employment and work, in line with the ILO’s mandate,” stated Katarina Crnjanski-Vlajčić, Technical Specialist for Social Inclusion and Public Employment Services at the International Labour Organization in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Through grant funding and high-quality technical assistance, the project will combine carefully designed employment measures for women, youth, the long-term unemployed, and vulnerable groups. These efforts aim to enhance their skills, improve employability, and create sustainable job opportunities in emerging sectors.

For more information about the EU4Employment in Bosnia and Herzegovina – Harnessing the Green and Digital Transitions project, please contact: eu4employment@ilo.org.