The Dialogue for the Future 3 - DFF3 will support peacebuilding progress and strengthen positive relationships within and across communities by creating an enabling environment for inclusive dialogue and by progressing dialogue on key issues of relevance to sustainable peace through the facilitation/provision of quality and inclusive education, as well as education of non-violence and peace, and through the promotion of cultural diversity and pluralism.

UNDP, UNESCO, and UNICEF will collaborate with government institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina to support young women and men in their initiatives relevant to community development within the priority areas of education, culture, and environment. In this way, the project will foster dialogue, promote civic engagement, and empower institutions and authorities for inter- and cross-community collaboration. It will encourage socially responsible initiatives and promote positive narratives. By connecting different communities through activities, the project will strengthen the sense of shared heritage and the significance of respect for diversity, mobilize civic initiatives around topics of joint interest in the areas of environmental protection, education, and culture, as well as promote intercultural dialogue for peaceful inter-community relations.

The proposed intervention will support progress towards peacebuilding and strengthen positive relationships within and across communities through two planned outcomes:

Outcome 1: Young people are empowered to develop and implement socially responsible initiatives and promote positive, inclusive narratives that strengthen social cohesion. 

Under the first outcome, the project aims to: 

• Strengthen youth participation in decision-making through supporting structured local dialogue mechanisms.

• Support community-led initiatives that encourage cooperation and joint problem-solving.

• Support the promotion of positive narratives and examples from local communities

• Advance gender equality by ensuring equal opportunities for young women and men to take part in civic initiatives. 

Outcome 2: Government institutions at state, entity, and local levels enhance their mechanisms to respond to youth-led and youth-centered priorities, fostering greater inclusivity and trust-building.

Under the second outcome, the project aims to:

• Enhance cooperation between institutions and young people by supporting structured dialogue on key social issues.

• Support improvements in education to promote active citizenship and appreciation of cultural diversity.

• Strengthen institutional capacities to deliver inclusive and quality education, ensuring young people are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed for meaningful participation in their communities.

Importance of this project

Young people in Bosnia and Herzegovina have limited opportunities for constructive interaction and collaboration outside their immediate communities, which can affect trust, civic engagement, and long-term social cohesion. Additionally, many young people express concerns about their future prospects and opportunities for meaningful participation in decision-making. 

By creating spaces for inclusive dialogue, supporting community-driven initiatives, and strengthening institutional responsiveness, Dialogue for the Future 3 - DFF3 works toward a more cohesive and forward-looking society, where young people play a central role in shaping their communities.

Within Bosnia and Herzegovina’s initial five-year eligibility for Peacebuilding Fund support, USD 15.5 ‘million has been allocated for peacebuilding initiatives across the country. Dialogue for the Future 3 - DFF3 seeks to strengthen social cohesion by addressing shared challenges, amplifying community-driven solutions, and ensuring that diverse voices are heard. With an investment of USD 3.5 million, over the next two years, the project will support locally led efforts that encourage cooperation, bridge divisions, and create opportunities for meaningful dialogue. 

Status

Ongoing

Start date

January 2024

Estimated end date

January 2027

Focus Area

Good Governance

Donors

United Nations Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund (PBF)

Project value

USD 3.5 million  

Geographic coverage

Bosanska Krupa, Doboj, Glamoč, Gornji Vakuf-Uskoplje, Milići, Mostar, Stolac, Teslić, Tuzla, and Zvornik

Partners

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF), United Nations Resident Coordinator in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ministry of Civil Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina