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Author: WeBalkans

Transforming Luka Brčko – A gateway to regional growth and connectivity

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

Armin Poljak, Young European Ambassador from Bosnia and Herzegovina   The end of November marked the right time for an EU Project Visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina! Ademir and Armin, YEAs from Bosnia and Herzegovina, traveled to Brčko to visit the Luka Brčko, the largest river port in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Located strategically along the Sava River, Luka Brčko is a vital logistics hub, linking Bosnia and Herzegovina with regional and international markets. River Port of Brčko is currently successfully implementing the project Reconstruction and Modernization of the River Port of Brčko, which includes the construction and arrangement of the port plateau, the purchase of a new crane, the reconstruction of the access road from the port to Bijeljinska cesta as well as the industrial railway from the port to Brčko Novo railway station. During the visit, the YEAs had the chance to explore the port’s facilities, learn about its transformative impact on the region’s economy and connectivity, but also to interact with its management team. Among other things, they had the opportunity to speak with the director of JP Luka Brčko, Mr. Perica Josić, who stated that the Port of Brčko received the revitalization project through support from the EBRD and WBIF, from which we received 3 million in grants and 8 million in loans to implement this project. This visit highlighted how EU investments in Luka Brčko are fostering sustainable development. Through its contributions, the EU has enabled infrastructure upgrades, boosted trade efficiency, and created job opportunities, directly benefiting local communities. On the other side, for the YEAs, witnessing these changes deepened their appreciation of how such projects translate EU’s values into practical, impactful actions on the ground. It also reinforced the crucial role of young leaders in shaping a future that is inclusive, sustainable, and deeply connected to European ideals. After visiting Labudovi Kindergarten, Voćar Company, Milo Selo Farm, and Luka Brčko, the YEAs continue their journey with new activities and preparations for upcoming EU Project Visits.

Beyond Stage Mastery: Building Connections and Transforming Theatre Behind the Scenes

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“It was an intense and exciting experience. Over the 5 days, we gained a lot of valuable and practical information, from the process of conceptualizing compositions and sounds integrated with a theatrical performance to the practical use of applications and websites for creating or editing various compositions,” says Belkisa Zhelegu, a student of Acting from Tirana, about her participation in the Sound Design masterclass ran by Alessandro Olla in Belgrade in March 2024.

The masterclass is one of the three masterclasses aiming to improve the backstage working quality in theatres in Serbia, Kosovo and Albania, organised within the Beyond Stage Mastery Program, supported by the British Council through the CC4WB project funded by the European Union that aims to foster dialogue in the Western Balkans by cultural and creative sectors for increased socio-economic impact.

Addressing the need for qualified theater professionals in sound, lighting and video operation while fostering dialogue and collaboration among young artists and professionals from the Western Balkans makes it possible for The Beyond Stage Mastery program to serve a dual mission.

Led by world class industry professionals like Luigi Bondi (lighting design), Alessandro Olla (sound design), and Lazar Nikolic (video operation), the workshops not only equipped participants with technical expertise but also created an environment of commonality and cultural acceptance.

Bondi, a renowned lighting designer and professor at the Silvio D’Amico National Academy of Arts,  when asked about his experience in Belgrade said, “teaching is always a great opportunity for confrontation. By teaching, I learn what I do not know from people of different experience, age and background. In the case of the students I met at the masterclass in Belgrade, I was able to discover more about countries like Kosovo, Serbia and Albania as well as meeting motivating and people who stimulate me on a human level.”

Beyond the trainings and lessons, the workshops were fruitful for the participants to create connections and exchange more with each other, which is a sentiment shared by Ms. Zhelegu as well, “The relationships built within the group were inspiring, fostering potential future and artistic collaborations. We were a diverse group, with participants from Albania, Kosovo and Serbia, but our passion for theatre was bigger than anything, at a certain point we all felt like we all belonged to the art”.

The project was also beneficial for the mentors, as confirmed by Bondi, who says that he just recently started attending some theatre in Sarajevo, and it is thanks to the exchange that he had with the students of the masterclass that he is able to better understand the theatre, “though economic resources and tools are limited, there is great rigour and creative ferment not only in theatre, but more generally in artistic disciplines. I feel that in the Western Balkan Region, art is held in high regard for what it really is: a powerful engine of socio-cultural development,” says Bondi.

The Beyond Stage Mastery project aims to not only create the opportunities for better representation of the Western Balkan scene in the European context, but most importantly empower local artists and professionals and foster meaningful connections between them by creating opportunities for them to directly work with each other and learn from each other.

Project participants will further be able to benefit from a job-shadowing program in one of the theatres in the Western Balkan region, whereas participants from the three countries will work in a country different from their home country, further contributing to their professional and personal growth and creating opportunities for the participants to better understand the culture of each respective country by living and working there.

Three manuals for non-formal teaching about sound, light design and video operation for theatre were produced within the framework of the project that will be disseminated to public and independent theatres in the countries involved in the project implementation, ensuring a sustainability to the project beyond its official duration.

While the magic of theatre often happens on stage, the real mastery lies in the bonds that we build and the lessons that we learn behind the scenes. This initiative is not just about technical capacities – it’s about—it’s about empowering artists and fostering human connections and exchanges.

Empowering Youth: Reflections on the YEA Award Ceremony in Zlatibor

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

Hana Kunić, Young European Ambassador from Bosnia and Herzegovina

 

Hello! My name is Hana Kunić, and I am a Young European Ambassador (YEA) from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Alongside my colleagues from the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd generations—Rexhina Pelivani from Albania, Emina Balota from Montenegro, Sava Dokmanović from Serbia, Marija Bugieva from North Macedonia, and Fatbardh Kabashi from Kosovo—I had the privilege of attending the YEA Award Ceremony in Zlatibor, Serbia.

As many of you know, the Young European Ambassadors Network was established in 2020 to bring together young activists from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia. Over the years, this network has grown into a powerful movement, uniting three generations of changemakers who work tirelessly to inspire positive change in their local communities, the Western Balkans, the European Union, and beyond.

However, on 6 December, our YEA family grew even larger as we welcomed new members from the 4th generation of Young European Ambassadors. During the YEA Award Ceremony, we celebrated the expansion of our network, which now proudly includes 240 dedicated young leaders ready to inspire change in all fields of their work.

The event, held from 6 to 8 December, was a great opportunity for our newest colleagues to gain insights into the YEA Network’s mission and their important role within it. They were introduced to the impactful initiatives and campaigns implemented by WeBalkans, which have been at the heart of our network’s activities.

Beyond this, participants had the chance to connect with our long-standing partners, including RYCO (Regional Youth Cooperation Office), the Regional Cooperation Council Youth Lab, the Council of Europe, and the College of Europe. These partners have supported the YEA Network since its beginnings, and they offered our new ambassadors valuable information about opportunities available to them.

Furthermore, the event emphasised the importance of collaboration between the Young European Ambassadors and EU Delegations in Western Balkan countries, highlighting our shared commitment to fostering regional development and cooperation.

A significant part of the event focused on equipping participants with practical skills in areas such as social media management, project development, and leadership—essential tools that will empower them throughout their YEA mandates. Even for us, the more experienced generations, the sessions offered valuable new knowledge and fresh perspectives.

Of course, a youth event is only complete with moments of fun, joy, and connection. Through engaging activities and informal gatherings, we had the chance to meet each other, build friendships, and learn even more about the future potential of our network.

This event in Zlatibor was truly unforgettable—a celebration of our shared mission, growth, and the energy that drives us forward, and it was an honour to be part of it.

To our newest YEA members, I extend my warmest congratulations once again on achieving this well-deserved title. Remember: “The network will give you as much as you give to the network.”

Let’s continue to inspire, collaborate, and create a better future—together.

European conference of single parents in Budapest

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

Stanisha Stankovikj, Young European Ambassador from North Macedonia

 

Given the positive outcomes and efforts, the story of the fight for the rights of young people from single parents and one-parent families is well-known, supported, and accepted among the North-Macedonian citizens. However, I believe that the citizens of the Western Balkans should also be aware of the institutional struggle for young people from various family structures.

In addition to my status as a Young European Ambassador, which in some ways helps me carry out all activities pertaining to people’s rights, I have spent years working as a youth activist, raising awareness of the plight of young people who are from single parents or one-parent families. As a young man who has grown up in a particular kind of family, I know that the struggle for representation, equality, and justice in North-Macedonian institutions never ends.

I can mention three national volunteer recognitions in the youth family story, followed by a World Youth Day recognition award from the state president, five initiatives to improve the rights of these young people, an award from the European Confederation of Youth Clubs, and co-authorship of the first brochure on the rights of young people from family and single-parent families in North Macedonia, the Western Balkans, and Europe.

Prior to last month’s end, I was the youngest speaker at an international conference for single parents in Budapest, Hungary, from November 21 to 23. The representation of North Macedonia and the Western Balkans entails a unique obligation to demonstrate that there is inspiring youth activism for these young people from N. Macedonia, the Western Balkan nations, as well as more broadly while addressing this issue, some for the youth of these kinds of families.

In light of Hungary’s EU presidency, this issue is becoming more and more prominent on the political agenda. Despite the fact that North Macedonia has strategies, documents, and recommendations that we can safely and persuasively present before the institutions, Montenegro leads the Balkans in this regard, followed by Serbia which has a comparatively broad range of policies regarding these families.

Celebrating 30 Years of ETF: Reflecting on the Past, Envisioning the Future

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

Ivan Durgutov, Young European Ambassador from North Macedonia

 

Dear readers,

I am Ivan, and I’m excited to share my experience attending the European Training Foundation’s (ETF) 30th Anniversary event, “Celebrating 30 Years of ETF: Reflecting on the Past, Envisioning the Future!” in Torino. This significant event brought together leaders, experts, and changemakers to honour three decades of ETF’s dedication to enhancing education, training, and labour market development across the EU’s neighbouring regions.

The main event, held on 28 November 2024 at Green Pea, a symbol of sustainable living in modern Torino, celebrated ETF’s achievements while setting the stage for its vision for the future. Over the decades, ETF’s efforts have not only contributed to regional stability and prosperity but have also created opportunities for countless individuals to grow, learn, and succeed.

I had the honour of serving as a panellist during the closing session, “Envisioning Employment and Education in 2050,” alongside an exceptional lineup of speakers, including: Li Andersson, Chair of the Employment and Social Affairs Committee, European Parliament; Cesare Onestini, Director General for Agriculture, Fisheries, Social Affairs and Health, Council of the EU; Mario Nava, Director General, Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, European Commission; and Mathieu Bouquet, Director, DG for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations, European Commission.

Representing the Young European Ambassadors (YEA) network, I offered a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities surrounding education and employment in the Western Balkans. I focused on the importance of youth-led initiatives in bridging gaps between education systems and labour market needs, and the potential for regional cooperation to address systemic issues such as brain drain and skills mismatches.

Drawing from personal experience, I emphasised the critical need to empower youth to lead change and actively engage in policymaking processes. I firmly believe that, as the next generation, we hold the keys to transforming education and employment landscapes in our region and beyond.

The event also provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with global thought leaders, share the perspectives of the Western Balkans, and amplify the voice of the YEA network. Through active participation in panel discussions and strong media visibility, we contributed meaningfully to the event’s success—ensuring its messages resonate far beyond Torino.

The celebrations culminated with a beautiful reception at the Reggia di Venaria, a royal palace and UNESCO World Heritage site, offering an unforgettable backdrop to mark ETF’s three decades of achievements.
With ETF’s continued support, I am confident we can work together to build stronger, more inclusive systems for education and employment, ensuring a brighter future for young people across the region.

Green skills, clean future: How EU4Green is transforming the Western Balkans

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The EU4Green initiative is more than just a project—it’s a movement transforming the Western Balkans into a hub of sustainability and innovation. From tackling pollution to fostering green skills and education, EU4Green is paving the way for a cleaner, healthier future while creating green jobs and strengthening ties with the EU. Here’s how this game-changing initiative is making a tangible difference across the region.   The EU4Green initiative is making significant strides in promoting environmental sustainability across the Western Balkans. One example is the ‘Western Balkans GreenCast,’ a podcast series that explores important environmental issues and green transition strategies in the region and the EU. This series features interviews with experts, real-life case studies, and in-depth discussions aimed at inspiring and educating listeners on sustainable practices and solutions for a healthier planet.   The first episode, ‘Water: Everyday’s Need,’ focuses on water conservation, a critical issue for the Western Balkans and the EU. It features Professor Dragana Tomašević Pilipović from the University of Novi Sad and Harald Loishandl Weisz, a water depollution expert from the Environment Agency Austria. They discuss the challenges of water pollution, why it is important to protect water resources, and strategies for ensuring a sustainable water future.  They highlight common misconceptions, explaining that water issues are about quality as much as quantity. They also discuss the need for better monitoring systems, the problems with outdated wastewater treatment facilities, and the pollution caused by industry and agriculture. The episode underscores the urgent need for comprehensive regional cooperation and effective implementation of environmental regulations. This podcast series exemplifies EU4Green’s commitment to transparency and public engagement, highlighting tangible environmental successes and fostering optimism among citizens while promoting accountability in governance. By showcasing achievements through initiatives like the #WeDidIt campaign, EU4Green celebrates the progress of regional and local efforts in implementing measures and reforms under the Green Agenda directives. This approach not only demonstrates the positive impact of collaborative efforts on the environment and society but also facilitates knowledge-sharing among stakeholders, inspiring other economies to replicate successful strategies. Through such initiatives, EU4Green continues to support the Western Balkans in their journey towards a greener and more sustainable future, aligning with the broader goals of the European Union’s Green Agenda. For more insights, you can watch the first episodes of the Western Balkans GreenCast here: EU4Green Transboundary Podcast   About the project: The EU4Green project supports the Western Balkans – Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo*, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia – in  implementing the ‘Green Agenda for the Western Balkans’, in greening their economies in consultation with all relevant partners and in enhancing monitoring and reporting.   EU4Green will contribute in the region to:
  • move to a circular economy
  • monitor and reduce pollutants in air, water and soil
  • make agriculture more sustainable and climate resilient
  • preserve biodiversity
  • provide ad hoc high-level policy support
  • strengthen Green Agenda monitoring and reporting
  • improve Green Agenda understanding through communication activities
  • strengthen green education
  • involve civil society and other stakeholders
  • foster financing the green transition

EU–Western Balkans Summit concludes with Brussels Declaration

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EU and Western Balkans leaders met in Brussels on 18 December. The meeting served as an opportunity to pursue the new momentum for the strategic partnership between the European Union and the Western Balkans, including a reflection on how to strengthen that partnership and move forward together towards a joint future in the European Union. The summit, chaired for the first time by António Costa in his new role as President of the European Council, emphasised shared connections. “We belong to the same European family. We share the same continent, but most importantly, we share common values and a common history,” Costa remarked, highlighting the unity between the EU and the Western Balkans. The summit concluded with the Brussels Declaration, underscoring the shared vision of the EU and the Western Balkans. “We share a common future and face urgent challenges that we can only overcome together. We owe it to our citizens to build a future of peace and prosperity, founded on shared principles, values, and common interests,” the declaration stated. The full text of the Brussels Declaration can be read here. The main topics of discussion were:
  • Enhancing the EU–Western Balkans integration through the Growth Plan
  • Deepening the EU’s political and policy engagement, including foreign and security policy
  • Building an economic foundation for the future and mitigating the impact of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine
  • Co-operation in migration management and the fight against corruption and organised crime
  Enhancing integration with the Western Balkans through the Growth Plan Launched in 2023, the Growth Plan aims to further integrate the Western Balkans partners closer to the integration within the EU single market. It focuses on advancing regional economic cooperation, fostering sustainable development, and incentivising critical reforms aligned with EU standards. “We commend five of the partners for the preparation and submission of their reform agendas, approved by the Commission, which will be the basis of implementation of the Growth Plan”, the Brussels declaration noted, highlighting the progress made towards building a stronger economic and political connection. The European Union continues to stand as the Western Balkans’ closest partner, serving as the region’s main investor, trading partner, and primary donor. Recognising this relationship, the EU encourages Western Balkan partners to actively communicate their alignment with EU values and commitment to reform through visible actions and public engagement, reinforced by strategic communication efforts. Both the EU and the Western Balkans share the responsibility of addressing common challenges. The Brussels Declaration highlighted significant progress, particularly in enabling visa-free travel for people across the entire Western Balkans region to the Schengen area. This summit marked another step in implementing the European Council’s 2024–2029 strategic agenda, underscoring the commitment to strengthening partnerships and addressing shared priorities.

From crisis to opportunity: A new era for trade in the Western Balkans

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During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, borders became choke points, threatening the flow of essential goods and endangering the livelihoods of millions. Supply chains strained under the weight of delays, and businesses faced mounting losses. Yet, in the face of this crisis, an innovative solution emerged—the Green Lanes Initiative. 

Developed through a collaboration between the Transport Community, CEFTA, and the European Union, Green Lanes were designed to be more than a stopgap measure. They represented a bold new vision for connectivity, built on modernisation, digitalisation, and cooperation. The results? Nearly 20 years’ worth of cumulative border waiting time saved and a foundation for a more resilient trade network. 

The story of transformation 

For Matej Zakonjšek, Director of the Transport Community, Green Lanes have made a tangible difference. “Trucks such as this one used to wait too long at border crossings in the Western Balkans. It negatively affected trade, CO2 emissions, and road safety,” he shares.  

“Thanks to EU support, we are now seeing shorter waiting times, modernised crossings, and safer journeys. This creates real value for our citizens, businesses, and visitors to this beautiful region”

These changes go beyond easing logistical bottlenecks. Green Lanes have become a symbol of what’s possible when regional cooperation flourishes. Governments, customs administrations, and businesses have come together, demonstrating the power of collective action to solve shared challenges. 

 

A vision for the future 

Building on its success, the Green Lanes Initiative is evolving to connect the Western Balkans more deeply with the EU and modernise key border crossings. Digital innovations, such as the SEED+ system and the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, are streamlining customs processes, reducing delays, and cutting costs. Agreements between countries— like those linking Croatia and Montenegro, Italy and Albania or Greece and North Macedonia —showcase how Green Lanes are becoming a bridge to the EU single market. 

As Danijela Gačević, Acting Director of CEFTA, aptly puts it, “Establishing green lanes between the region and the EU is a game-changer. It makes trade faster, cheaper, and safer, creating more opportunities for businesses and people.” 

Meanwhile, investments of €50 million are upgrading 11 major border points with new infrastructure, digital systems, and enhanced security measures. These include additional lanes, weighbridges, and electronic queuing systems, ensuring faster and more efficient crossings. 

From the perspective of the business community, Stevica Čarapić highlights the urgency of addressing border inefficiencies. “The greatest challenge we are facing today is the huge waiting times at border crossings. This inefficiency affects not just individual countries but the competitiveness of the entire region. With the Green Lanes Initiative, we hope to see significant improvements in cargo flow and cooperation between governments to reduce delays and streamline processes.” 

He also points out that, in some instances, queues have stretched as long as 15 kilometres, with drivers waiting for days to cross. “This is not just a logistical problem; it’s a barrier to progress for everyone in the region,” he adds. 

A human-centred approach 

The Green Lanes Initiative doesn’t just benefit businesses—it transforms lives. Professional drivers now spend less time waiting and more time on the road, reducing stress and improving safety. Travellers face fewer delays, making holidays more enjoyable. Local communities experience the ripple effects of stronger economies and increased job opportunities. 

As Matej observes, “With modernised crossings, we are not only reducing waiting times but also creating a safer and more efficient environment for everyone. This is the best way to add value to our region.” 

The road ahead 

The success of Green Lanes is a testament to the power of partnership. It’s a story of resilience and innovation, showing how crises can inspire lasting change. As the Western Balkans and the EU continue to work together, the vision of seamless connectivity and shared prosperity comes closer to reality. 

By investing in digitalisation, modernisation, and regional cooperation, the Green Lanes Initiative is paving the way for a brighter future. It’s more than a logistical improvement; it’s a movement toward unity, growth, and opportunity for generations to come. 

Solidarity in Action: EU’s Response to Devastating Floods in Bosnia and Herzegovina

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“Our hearts and thoughts are with the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina, hit by devastating floods. We have activated our EU Civil Protection Mechanism and are sending rescue teams on the ground. This is EU solidarity in action,” said Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, ensuring the close presence of the EU to help the Bosnia and Herzegovina people overcome the trying times that emerged after catastrophic floods and landslides hit the country on 4 October, claiming 22 lives and leaving many missing. 

 

Catastrophic floods and landslides hit Bosnia and Herzegovina earlier this year, claiming 22 lives and leaving many missing. Events like this require a quick and coordinated response, both to help people in need and to manage the disaster. The European Union responded quickly by activating its Civil Protection Mechanism.  Search and rescue teams were deployed, and the EU’s Copernicus Emergency Management Service (EMS) provided satellite data to assist local authorities. These efforts helped restore vital infrastructure and support affected communities, which assisted local authorities to manage the disaster and restore vital infrastructure. Flash floods and landslides devastated regions around Jablanica and Konjic, homes were buried, roads and railways were destroyed, and entire communities were left isolated.

The EU’s commitment to be there for the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina was further reinforced by Janez Lenarčič, who said, “Bosnia and Herzegovina’s first responders are not facing this deadly disaster alone. Through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, 12 countries have offered to send emergency assistance. Search and rescue teams from Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, and Serbia are already on the ground, supporting the local crisis response. This is a strong expression of EU solidarity in a time of great need,”. Teams from these countries arrived by 5 October to search for missing persons, remove debris, and restore critical infrastructure. Additionally, emergency supplies such as shelter materials were sent by Albania, Hungary, Romania, Montenegro, and Türkiye to help displaced families. Additionally, the EU coordinated the delivery of emergency supplies, including shelter materials from Albania, Hungary, Romania, Montenegro, and Türkiye, to support displaced families.

 

The Copernicus Emergency Management Service (EMS) played a key role in responding to the disaster. It provided satellite images to assess the damage, map flooded areas, and identify the most severely affected regions. This data allowed rescue teams prioritise their efforts and reach isolated communities more effectively. The Copernicus EMS had also been activated earlier in the summer to assist during the widespread wildfires in Albania and North Macedonia, once again demonstrating its critical role in managing natural disasters across the Western Balkans.

As the flood response continued, high-quality satellite images and damage assessments were regularly provided, helping guide the rescue efforts on the ground. The EU’s coordinated action, through both its Civil Protection Mechanism and the Copernicus EMS, demonstrated its unwavering commitment to supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina in a time of crisis. By 11 October, after several days of continuous rescue and recovery work, the emergency satellite services were concluded, marking the end of the EU’s immediate response phase.

‘Livanjski sir’ receives EU protection

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‘Livanjski sir’ today becomes a product with a prestigious EU Protected Geographical Indication, joining a list of 3,639 products, whose quality and traditions are recognised and protected through the EU’s register for agricultural geographical indications. The EU’s quality schemes and geographical indications have a strong reputation across the world, and receiving PGI status is expected to bring significant benefits for producers of ‘Livanjski sir’ when marketing themselves, in particular for small-scale producers.

 

In a video message to mark this milestone, the Head of the EU Delegation and EU Special Representative in BiH Luigi Soreca said, “As of today, Livanjski sir joins products such as Champagne, Parmigiano Reggiano and Jamón ibérico in receiving trademark protection from the EU. Congratulations to Bosnia and Herzegovina! ‘Livanjski sir’ is the first food product in the Western Balkans to receive EU protection. Our hope is there will be more. And we stand ready to advise Bosnia and Herzegovina’s outstanding food and drink producers how they can apply for and benefit from the EU’s geographical indication and quality schemes”.

 

The uniqueness of ‘Livanjski sir’ comes from the exceptional quality of the milk used, produced in a region where Mediterranean and continental climates meet. In this distinctive environment, with its mountain pastures and karst fields, there is rich vegetation and local aromatic herbs, which contribute to the specific taste of the cheese. Produced in Livno and neighbouring municipalities, ‘Livanjski sir’ has earned a global reputation for its quality and tradition. Since the late 19th century, its production methods have been passed down through generations, ensuring consistent quality.

The protection of “Livanjski sir” is a tangible example of the benefits Bosnia and Herzegovina enjoys as a result of its close partnership with the European Union. The PGI label protects the authenticity of ‘Livanjski sir,’ guaranteeing that only cheese made in designated areas according to traditional methods can carry this name. This label protects not just its unique flavour but also its connection to the region climate, pastures and traditional methods of cheese production, making it a symbol of agricultural excellence in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

 

More information on the EU’s geographical indications and quality schemes, including information on how products are protected can be found here.