Digital platforms are increasingly becoming a tool for young people to participate in social processes, not only on social media, but also in meaningful dialogue with institutions. One of the best examples of this transformation in Bosnia and Herzegovina is the eCitizen application.

What’s especially important is that young people have recognized the potential of this platform and are actively using it. They don’t want to wait for someone else to solve their problems. Instead, they are taking matters into their own hands by submitting suggestions, filing complaints, asking questions to elected representatives of local self-governments, and actively participating in shaping local policies.

Tešanj: Active monitoring and participation

Jasmina Ramić from Tešanj believes that eCitizen is a useful and well-designed tool:

“The platform is very good. It helps us stay informed about the work of the municipality, the mayor, and the council, to participate in public discussions, and to report problems. You can quickly find everything you’re interested in.”

Jasmina uses the app regularly and invites other citizens of Tešanj to get involved:

“When you report a problem, you get a response within two to three days.”

Such active involvement of citizens, especially young people, shows that digital solutions are not just a technological trend but a concrete mechanism for communication with institutions.

Nermina Škokan, also from Tešanj, highlights the efficiency and simplicity of the app:

“From my experience, the app is very good because I’ve always received quick responses and effective solutions to my reports. It’s simple to use and accessible to everyone.”

Two-way communication between users and institutions is what makes eCitizen special. Unlike traditional administrative channels, which are often slow and not adapted to the diverse needs of citizens, this app enables direct contact with decision-makers.

Čitluk: Quick solutions through a simple tool

Petra Cvjetanović from the municipality of Čitluk experienced the direct benefits of the app:

“My complaint concerned a streetlight malfunction, which was resolved in a very short time. I would encourage everyone to use the platform because it’s very easy to use. When you know someone is receiving and addressing your reports, it’s easier to get involved.”

In addition to simplifying communication, eCitizen gives young people a sense of belonging and active role in their community. Real participation is not a privilege, it can become an everyday practice.

Šamac: Direct contact with the local community

Petar Vajić from Šamac has been using the app since its launch and finds it extremely useful:

“Now we have the opportunity to directly report everything that needs attention in the municipality of Šamac, from the comfort of our homes.”

He mentioned an environmental issue that was resolved quickly and added that the platform is not just for the young:

“It’s easy to use not only for young people but for everyone.”

It doesn’t matter how old you are, what matters is knowing that your report reaches someone who will read it and respond. The eCitizen app enables simple, direct, and efficient communication.

A generation of change through technology

It’s clear that young people across Bosnia and Herzegovina recognize eCitizen as a tool that allows them to be active. Instead of criticizing from the sidelines, they use the available platforms to contribute to their communities. Most importantly, young people know that their reports won’t go unanswered.

The digital literacy of young people here becomes a driver of real, tangible change at the local level. In this way, eCitizen becomes not just an application, but a bridge between a new generation and a system that is evolving.

eCitizen was developed within the framework of the Municipal Environmental Governance Project (MEG2), jointly funded by the Government of Switzerland, Sweden, and the Government of the Czech Republic, as well as the European Union, and implemented by UNDP in Bosnia and Herzegovina.