The fourth SDG Week in Bosnia and Herzegovina concluded with a series of successful events that highlighted the importance of partnerships, innovation, and sustainable practices for inclusive development. Gathering over 2,000 participants from various sectors, this week offered a platform for knowledge exchange, promoting innovative approaches, and initiating projects that will contribute to the green and resilient development of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Opening Ceremony – 2024 SDG Local Governance Awards: Pioneering the Possible in BiH

SDG Week opened with a ceremony recognizing the achievements of local governments for projects that actively contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). During the event, best practices were presented, and collaboration among local governments in BiH on innovative projects was further encouraged. The ceremony attracted representatives from municipalities and cities across the country, promoting examples of successful local initiatives.

CampUp 2024

At the University Campus in Banja Luka, CampUp provided a five-day experience for young people, allowing them to engage with startup development and entrepreneurial skills. On the final day, teams presented their ideas to a jury, and the most innovative startup ideas were recognized. This platform inspired participants to identify local challenges and address them with sustainable solutions.

Inclusion through Art

In Čapljina, children from the local community, children under international protection, asylum-seeker children, and children from marginalized groups joined together to create a mural themed around social inclusion. Through creative work, this event helped strengthen social cohesion and integration, enabling young people from different backgrounds to collaborate and express their thoughts on inclusion.

From Pollution to Solutions: A Franco-Bosnian Air Quality Summit

The conference in Sarajevo brought together experts from BiH and France to discuss challenges and solutions related to air pollution. The focus was on inspiring local actors to take action to improve air quality, especially in urban areas like Sarajevo and Tuzla.

The Special Olympics

In Tuzla, a sports competition promoted the inclusion of persons with disabilities through joint participation in basketball and football games. The event demonstrated how sports can help strengthen social bonds and break down barriers between people with and without disabilities.

Governing Sustainable Development: Evaluating Strategic Documents in Republika Srpska

A workshop in Banja Luka brought together planners from the RS Government ministries to assess the application of the SDG Framework through strategic planning. Participants explored ways to strengthen strategic management for achieving sustainable goals.

Mental Healthcare and Social Services in Peacebuilding

Held in Banja Luka, this event facilitated discussions on the role of mental healthcare and social services in strengthening peace. Through partnerships with public institutions, the event empowered local partners to consider mental health as a key factor for social stability.

Circular Accelerator for SMEs

In Vitez, a two-day training for small and medium-sized enterprises focused on developing business models based on the circular economy. The program provided participants with practical skills and tools for adopting sustainable business practices, equipping them with the knowledge for long-term economic and environmental goals.

Planting of Tree Seedlings at Fortica

In partnership with the City of Mostar Scouts’ Alliance, UNDP organized the planting of 30 tree seedlings at Fortica. This action gathered 40 participants and showcased the importance of preserving natural resources for future generations.

Recycle and Win

At Wilson’s promenade in Sarajevo, citizens had the opportunity to actively participate in recycling and win educational prizes. This event encouraged the public to contribute to waste reduction, promoting sustainable living practices.

Capacity Building for HPV Vaccination

A workshop in Sarajevo provided professional support for advancing HPV vaccination, with a special focus on access for marginalized groups. Participants gained valuable knowledge and resources for promoting public health.

The Energy Behind What You Wear – Threads for Tomorrow

An event dedicated to sustainable fashion highlighted the environmental challenges of the fashion industry. Through discussions on ecological impact and circular economy opportunities, participants gained insights into steps toward a greener approach in the fashion sector.

Digital Literacy in Transformation: AI or Ouch?

This event, held at the University of Sarajevo, brought together young people who had the opportunity to learn about the role of artificial intelligence and digital literacy in modern society, enhancing their ability to use new technologies responsibly.

Transforming Bosnia and Herzegovina Through Health, Technology, and Collaboration

This event explored the potential for improving the healthcare system through innovation and partnerships. Inspired by the Swedish model, it emphasized the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration to achieve SDGs in BiH.

Field Visit – SDG Localization Grant Scheme

High-level representatives from the UN and the Swedish Embassy visited projects in Trebinje, including the sensory room at the Day Centre for Persons with Developmental Disabilities. This visit highlighted the results of the SDG localization grant scheme, supported by Sweden.

Gendergy – Energy and Gender Equality

A discussion in Sarajevo addressed gender equality in the energy sector, aiming to ensure that both women and men benefit equally from energy resources. Strategies for removing barriers were also considered to build an inclusive and sustainable future.

Relations Between AI and Media and Information Literacy

In Banja Luka, students and professors discussed artificial intelligence and media literacy. The event enabled young people to recognize the challenges and opportunities of technological advancement.

About SDG Week in Bosnia and Herzegovina

SDG Week in Bosnia and Herzegovina provides a platform for meetings, consultations, and discussions to promote the SDGs in the country. This initiative supports the SDG Council in BiH by raising awareness and involving key audiences in conversations about success stories, new trends, and lessons learned that contribute to the implementation of Agenda 2030 in BiH.

SDG Week in BiH is supported by the initiative “Translating the SDG Framework in BiH into Sustainable and Inclusive Growth (SDG2BiH),” funded by Sweden and implemented by UNDP in partnership with UNICEF and UN Women, as part of the United Nations’ overall program supporting BiH authorities, coordinated by the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office in BiH.