The process of declaring the Prenj Mountain a protected area officially began today with an introductory meeting between the Federal Ministry of Environment and Tourism (FMOIT), the City of Konjic and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which represents a significant step for BiH in expansion of protected areas and harmonization with international biodiversity conservation goals.

The Minister of Environment and Tourism, Nasiha Pozder, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating: 

"Mount Prenj is a jewel of biological diversity and a symbol of natural heritage that we want to preserve for future generations. By declaring Prenj a protected area, we fulfill not only our international obligations, but also create opportunities for sustainable development and tourism throughout BiH. 

Since in Greek mythology Olympus is the home of twelve gods, including Zeus, one of the assumptions is that Prenj got its current name from Perun, the thunder god of the ancient Slavs. Prenj is our Olympus among the mountains and its protection is not only our obligation but also a pledge for this and future generations who need to respect it and admire this giant of our nature."

The meeting follows the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding signed at the beginning of this year between FMOIT and the City of Konjic, aligned with the goals of the Federal Environmental Protection Strategy and the City's strategic plans.

The Mayor of Konjic Municipality, Osman Ćatić, commented on the local significance of this undertaking: 

"Mountain Prenj for the City of Konjic is not only a natural treasure, but also an integral part of our identity. The protection of this area ensures the preservation of our cultural and natural heritage, and at the same time opens new doors for local economic development."

UNDP in Bosnia and Herzegovina as an implementation partner of the process, through the Financial Agreement signed with FMOIT, supports the expansion of protected areas in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the preservation of the priceless natural heritage of the Prenj region.

Victor Munteanu, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP in Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasized the broader significance of the project: 

"This initiative is a clear example of good cooperation between state and local authorities and international partners in protecting the precious ecosystems of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Protecting Prenj is another step towards achieving global environmental goals the Government has committed to, while strengthening the resilience and development of local communities."

Bosnia and Herzegovina has committed to protect 30% of its territory by 2030 as part of its ambitious international commitments. However, only about 3.5% of protected areas are currently declared, which highlights the need for more concerted efforts. In the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, about 4.5% of the territory is protected, including natural monuments, protected landscapes, nature parks and the Una National Park. The declaration of the Prenj mountain, known for its exceptional biological diversity and unique ecosystem, will contribute to the reversal of this trend and the improvement of nature conservation.