The Festival of Local Communities was held in Sarajevo and gathered citizens, representatives of local communities, local authorities and civil society organizations from all over Bosnia and Herzegovina. The event showcased initiatives that demonstrate how people’s engagement at the local level contributes to community development, strengthened trust and greater social cohesion.

The Festival was organized within the project “Strengthening the Role of Local Communities in BiH”, which lasted ten years and included 41 municipalities and 199 local communities. During this period, citizens were at the center of all activities: 76 trainings were held with 1,400 participants, including 500 women who today lead initiatives and drive change. At 299 forums, citizens proposed 219 projects – from playgrounds and community centers to new services and digital solutions – improving the lives of more than 700,000 people across the country.

“Switzerland has for many years supported municipalities in BiH in order to improve services and living conditions in communities. Through this project we directly supported 41 municipalities and 199 local communities, with additional support provided to 22 municipalities through the associations of municipalities and cities. We are convinced that involving citizens in local decision-making is the foundation of effective, accountable and transparent governance,” said Georgette Bruchez, Head of International Cooperation at the Embassy of Switzerland in BiH.

“The Festival of Local Communities has shown that when we provide space and support to people, they know how to deliver results. Through this project we reached the lives of around 700,000 citizens. This is not the end, but the continuation of our work on strengthening capacities and supporting local changemakers,” said Renaud Meyer, Resident Representative of UNDP in BiH.

“The Citizens’ Association Lavanda from Gradačac works to support young women and children through counselling, educational workshops, psychological assistance and yoga classes. Our goal is to strengthen the local community and provide opportunities for all its members to gain self-confidence and a sense of belonging,” said Hazima Biberkić from the Association ‘Lavanda’, Gradačac.

Although the project has ended, the messages of the Festival clearly show that citizens will continue to be the key drivers of change in their communities. The experiences gained and the models of cooperation developed remain the foundation for the continued work of institutions, civil society and international partners in strengthening local democracy and sustainable development in Bosnia and Herzegovina.