STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF LOCAL COMMUNITIES IN BIH NEWSLETTER 1. CIVIC ACTIVISM # LocalCommunities June 2017

Strengthening the role of local communities in BiH • BRČKO • Defining priorities • GRADAČAC • ŽEPČE • Research, analysis and consultation • ILIJAŠ • JABLANICA • KLJUČ • Increase of democratic and direct participation of citizens • PALE • Political barometer • • • Forums and debates in local communities • GRADIŠKA • • Inclusion and economic empowerment of socially marginalized categories • • Infrastructure development projects • STARI GRAD • • Interactive trainings and courses • GRAČANICA • • Development of local communities' visions • TEŠANJ • Improving the quality of life in communities • PETROVO • Civic activism development - Start-Up Days • LJUBUŠKI • Opening Social Canters • KOTOR VAROŠ • Celebrating champions in the communities • LAKTAŠI • • Awarding ICT equipment • • • Strengthening the role of local communities in BiH • BRČKO • Defining priorities • GRADAČAC • ŽEPČE • Research, analysis and consultations • JABLANICA • KLJUČ • Increase of democratic and direct participation of citizens • PALE • Political barometer • RUDO • BANJA LUKA • Forums and debates in local communities • GRADIŠKA • OLOVO • Inclusion and economic empowerment of socially marginalized categories • BIJELJINA • Infrastructure development projects • STARI GRAD SARAJEVO • SANSKI MOST • Interactive trainings and courses • GRAČANICA • VISOKO • Development of local communities' visions • TEŠANJ • Improving the quality of life in communities • PETROVO • Civic activism development - Start-Up Days • LJUBUŠKI • Opening Social Canters • KOTOR VAROŠ • Celebrating champions in the communities • LAKTAŠI • LJUBINJE • Awarding ICT equipment • NEVESINJE • NOVO SARAJEVO • Strengthening the role of local communities in BiH • BRČKO • Defining priorities • GRADAČAC • ŽEPČE • Research, analysis and consultations • ILIJAŠ • JABLANICA • KLJUČ • Increase of democratic and direct participation of citizens • PALE • Political barometer • RUDO • BANJA LUKA • Forums and debates in local communities • GRADIŠKA • OLOVO • Inclusion and economic empowerment of socially marginalized categories • BIJELJINA • Infrastructure development projects • STARI GRAD SARAJEVO • Strengthening the role of local communities in BiH • BRČKO • Defining priorities • GRADAČAC • ŽEPČE • Research, analysis and consultation • ILIJAŠ • JABLANICA • KLJUČ • Increase of democratic and direct participation of citizens • PALE • Political barometer • RUDO 2 CIVIC ACTIVISM # LocalCommunities Strengthening the role of local communities in BiH Majda Ganibegović, Project Manager

“Strengthening the Role of Local The project Strengthening the Role of Local Communities – MZ in Communities – MZ in BiH” is a BiH is a joint project of the Government of Switzerland and the joint project of the Government of Government of Sweden and it is implemented by the United Nations Switzerland and the Government of Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the national authorities. The objective of the project is to increase the democratic Sweden. The 14.5 million KM worth and direct participation of citizens of and in the Project is implemented by the United local governance, strengthen responsibilities of municipal authorities Nations Development Programme and improve the infrastructure and services at the level of local (UNDP), in partnership with the Ministry communities (MZ), which requires the modernization and redefinition of Human Rights and Refugees of BiH, of the role of the local community in BiH, and creation of stable and Ministry of Public Administration and functional governance model. Thanks to the partners, the Government Local Self-government of Republika of Switzerland and the Government of Sweden, which are making long- Srpska, Ministry of Justice of the term investments in this country, we work patiently and innovatively on this project on changing the mind-set and the development of civic Federation of BiH, the Government activism. of Brčko District and both Entity Associations of Municipalities and There are currently more than 2,500 local communities1 in BiH, Cities. which have different legal and administrative status. In the FBiH, local communities are legally defined local governments, while in The aim of the project is to increase they do not have a defined legal status and in Brčko the democratic and direct participation District they have the status of association of citizens. Different legal of citizens of frameworks to which the local communities are subjected, and different types of funding, certainly affect their activities. However, despite the in the local governance, strengthen differences, what is common to all local communities is the desire of responsibilities of municipal authorities citizens for better services, improving the quality of life, increasing the and improve the infrastructure transparency and accountability of local administration, and promoting and services at the level of local the social inclusion of young people, women and marginalized groups, communities. 132 local communities which is offered by this project. The citizens make the core and the and 24 local government units driving force of this project, and after a year, we already have a chance to throughout the country participate see how civic voice can affect positive changes in the local community in the first phase of the project, from – priorities with local governments have been defined and shared and some of these have already been implemented, including construction July 2015 to July 2019, which will of roads, reconstruction of water pipelines and procurement of contribute to improving the quality of ultrasound machine. life of 300,000 people throughout the country. The revival and strengthening of the role of local community in BH includes invigoration and education of citizens to articulate their needs and wishes more clearly, and for this purpose, from May to November 2016, 204 forums of local communities were held with over 5,500 citizens in 24 local governments and 132 local communities. 166 local communities from 84 local governments have participated and contributed to the creation of a new vision of the local community, with the civil society organizations, academic community, representatives of the economic sector and the media, and through this work we identified four potential models of local community action in BiH.

1 Jusić, M. et al. 2016. Reflecting on the role of the local community in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Sarajevo: UNDP.

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More - #LocalCommunities https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGz-MLu3VoE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfp_ZfM2B9k

All 132 local communities participated in the process of External collaborators are working with us to implement building their own capacities, and their representatives the ideas and visions that the citizens themselves have were educated and trained through trainings tailored defined in order to empower them in an innovative to their specified needs. So far, 5 interactive training manner to take responsibility for improving the quality programs have been implemented in 7 cycles, with over of life and contribute with their expertise to the better 1,215 participants. During 2016, 3 international study quality in implementation of the project. In cooperation visits to the Kingdom of Sweden, the Republic of Croatia with the Foundation for Development and Democracy, and the Republic of Serbia were organized for 157 key debates were held in 21 municipalities, and we are project stakeholders. currently developing political barometers, while with the Civil Society Promotion Centre the activities are taken For the purpose of creating better working conditions, on holding information sessions for projects for socially which will enable more accessible, efficient and better excluded categories of society. In collaboration with the quality services to citizens, 132 local communities are Networks, six Start-up Days were organized in Tešanj, equipped with a standard set of equipment consisting Sarajevo, , Ljubuški, Bijeljina and Banja Luka, with of desktop, monitor, printer/photocopier/fax, OHP, OHP the aim of promoting civic entrepreneurship. wall screen and tablet. Premises of 12 community hubs have been reconstructed and opened, and these are also Activities conducted so far indicate a strong will and equipped with ICT equipment. 77 project proposals of desire of citizens for changes, but also the readiness for local communities were approved, of which 16 has individual contribution at the social level. Strengthening started or fully completed with implementation in 2016. the role of local communities in BiH is now a family of 24 58 civil society organizations (CSOs) have applied with local government units and 132 local communities. project proposals focusing on socially excluded categories During the work, we met fantastic individuals and within partner local communities, of which 27 projects numerous community champions, agents of change, have been approved until now, and currently 18 are being who are community models, and we are confident that implemented. we will jointly lay the foundations of a more responsible governance in BiH in the next period.

“Strengthening the Role of Local Communities – MZ in BiH” 4 CIVIC ACTIVISM # LocalCommunities Project partners Strengthening the role of local communities in BiH is co-funded by the Government of “As a developed Switzerland and the Government of Sweden, with a share of 14.5 million KM, for the economy and society first phase of the project from 2015 to 2019. In this way, development partners strive to support efforts aimed at modernizing and revitalizing local communities in Bosnia and Sweden also faces Herzegovina in order to transform them into areas with renewed civic engagement challenges in terms and responsible local government units. of how to invigorate Although the perspectives from Switzerland and Sweden cannot be applied directly to its citizens and initiate BiH, the experiences of these countries, which also differ from each other, are certainly activism, and therefore useful because of the long tradition of strong local democracy and good governance. In they create and use Sweden, the local authorities voluntarily choose the committees and neighbourhood different models in or district councils so as to get closer to the citizens. In Switzerland, such associations at the local level (quartiervereine/associations de quartier) are established by the residents order to succeed. on a voluntary basis, and at the level of the quarter they can then establish community Some of the models hubs as socio-cultural spaces run by local non-governmental associations. Quarters’ that we have seen are associations represent the interests of their members and maintain and improve very interesting and I the quality of life in their environment. Citizens’ influence is guaranteed through the mechanisms of direct democracy. think that they could be applied in Bosnia and The diversity of organization of local government in these two countries suggests Herzegovina”, said the that the local governance model does not have to determine the level or type of democratic participation of citizens, and that through various models, activism of the Mayor of Tešanj, Suad population and the openness of government authorities for civic participation are the Huskić. most important factors of democratic governance. Despite differences in form and structure of participation, such way of thinking and practice can be applied in Bosnia and Herzegovina in order to find more efficient ways of work and engaging citizens.

Marie Bergström, Counsellor, Barbara Dätwyler Scheuer, Head of Development Director of Cooperation, Cooperation, Embassy of Sweden Swiss Embassy in BiH

Sweden has a long-term commitment towards giving Broad participation in shaping policies is an important support to building a democratic society in Bosnia and feature of direct local democracy in Switzerland. We are Herzegovina. This is also one of the key areas of the aware that substantial change in the BiH society requires Result Strategy for Sweden’s Reform Cooperation with the locally-driven demands with a high participation of Western , 2014-2020. The Swedish Government citizens. They need to become equal partners to local contributes to the development of accountable and governments in designing the future of this country. MZs modern local self-governance in Bosnia and Herzegovina have the potential to become an instrument of awakening by supporting the capacity building and development of the spirit of involvement and solidarity among citizens. transparent and democratic institutions at the local level. Based on the long tradition of local democracy and good The Swiss Cooperation Strategy 2017-20 is the base for four governance in Sweden, we know that active citizens are more years of partnership and cooperation with Bosnia and the basis of local democracy and it is essential to ensure Herzegovina. We want to create more and better social, their participation in the decision making processes. Civic economic and political opportunities and perspectives activism requires increasing the awareness about equal for all people of Bosnia and Herzegovina, women and gender representation and strengthening the rights and men. The establishment of functional and strong system of recognition of minorities and marginalized populations, in local governance, improving access to municipal services, order to improve the quality of life for all citizens in Bosnia and strengthening the accountability of local authorities and Herzegovina. will remain in the focus of the Switzerland’s engagement.“

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Some personal thoughts after two years of project implementation

Regula Bäbler Local Governance and Migration & Development Advisor sell locally grown fruits and vegetables, or you’ll get to Swiss Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina know an innovative gardening tool. I attended the Tesanj Start up Day. Its stimulating energy opened my mind and removed even linguistic barriers; without problems I I had the chance to follow and support the “Strengthening followed convincing presentations in local language and the role of the Mjesne Zajednice” project from its beginning. got involved in animated discussions … When I arrived in Sarajevo, at the end of 2013, for my first posting in a Balkan country, discussions around a I felt this inspiring and future oriented energy also in other possible future support to MZs had started. Alma Zukorlić, settings, e.g. at the successful networking conference my committed colleague, explained me the history and in March this year. MZ representatives and municipal function of the Mjesne Zajednice. She made me aware of authorities from BiH and the region came together, learning the potential of this structure, a traditional basis for active from each other and starting to shape the vision of the citizens’ participation. An analysis and report on challenges future MZs. This is one important envisaged result of this and prospects for the institutional development of the ambitious, and at the same time so well grounded project: Local Communities in Bosnia and Herzegovina was “Relevant stakeholders and citizens country-wide share prepared, as a foundation for the elaboration of a concrete and gather around a vision of modern local communities, project proposal. as foundation for stronger community governance in BiH”.

What looked to me, at the beginning, like an interesting For me there is no doubt, that MZs in future will share research topic, has within short time turned into one an even stronger common ground and open up spaces of the liveliest and stimulating projects I know. I invite to make all their ideas come to life - for the wellbeing of you to go and see what happens at a Mjesna Zajednica their community and its people! All my best wishes go to start up day! Go and listen to enthusiastic participants, the MZ activists, to the committed authorities at all levels presenting their ideas for improving every day’s lives in and to the implementing team, for a continued successful their neighborhood, in the place where they live. You will realization of the “Strengthening the role of the Mjesne learn about the need to improve street lightening, to find Zajednice” project! benches for a central meeting place, to create a space to

“Strengthening the Role of Local Communities – MZ in BiH” 6 CIVIC ACTIVISM # LocalCommunities National partners MINISTRY FOR HUMAN In addition to the Governments of Switzerland and Sweden and the United Nations RIGHTS AND REFUGEES OF Development Programme, the successful implementation of this project also depends BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA on the role, motivation and capacity of several other key partners: BiH Ministry of Human Rights and Refugees, Ministry of Public Administration and Local Self-Government of Republika Srpska, Ministry of Justice of FBiH, Brčko District Government and both Entity Associations of Municipalities and Cities, as well as local government units, local communities and civil society organizations. The new vision of local government requires the active engagement of these stakeholders and their capacity building, with MINISTRY the aim of achieving better communication and cooperation between the authorities OF JUSTICE FBIH and the citizens.

Ministry of Human Rights and Refugees of BiH helps in setting the project goals and scope and is responsible for the implementation of the European Convention on Human Rights in BiH and coordination of country MINISTRY OF PUBLIC development policies. ADMINISTRATION AND LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT OF RS Ministry of Justice of the Federation of BiH contributes to the creation of a new vision for local communities and the re-establishment of the legal РЕПУБЛИКА СРПСКА THE REPUBLIC OF SRPSKA framework through which these local units operate. ВЛАДА GOVERNMENT

СТРАТЕГИЈА STRATEGY FOR IMPROVING THE SOCIAL УНАПРЕЂЕЊА СОЦИЈАЛНЕ ЗАШТИТЕ PROTECTION OF CHILDREN WITHOUT Ministry of Public Administration and Local Self-Government of RS has ДЈЕЦЕ БЕЗ РОДИТЕЉСКОГ СТАРАЊА PARENTAL CARE 2015–2020.GOVERNMENT ГОДИНЕ 2015–2020 OF direct responsibility for definition of local policies at the level of this entity, BRČKO DISTRICT it is an active partner in various local government projects and plays a key role in reviving and redefining the legal framework for local communities in the RS.

Бања Лука, октобар, 2015. године Banja Luka, October 2015 Brčko District Government plays an important role in defining the legal frameworks and functioning of local communities in the District. ASSOCIATION OF MUNICIPALITIES AND CITIES OF RS Association of Municipalities and Cities of RS, and the Associationstrategija5.indd 3 of 2/18/16 1:20 PM Municipalities and Cities of FBiH represent the voice of local government, advocate for the creation of policies and laws that are in the greatest interest of citizens, participate in creating a new vision and serve as a link for dialogue between local and higher levels of government. ASSOCIATION OF MUNICIPALITIES AND Local Government Units (LGUs), cities and municipalities are key players CITIES OF FBIH in interventions pertaining to local development. Their role is to support open and transparent engagement of local communities in policy design, 132 local communities and 24 definition of priorities and a new community vision, as well as in improving municipalities/cities are part the regulatory operating framework. These units also have the task of of the project providing co-financing of 30% for projects from municipal budgets. “Strengthening the role of In these units, local communities are not only the key partners, but also local communities in BiH” - the main beneficiaries of financial, expert and technical assistance, and Banja Luka, Bijeljina, Brčko, they play a key role in activating citizens and establishing dialogues and Gračanica, Gradačac, Gradiška, forums in communities. Ilijaš, Jablanica, Ključ, Kotor Varoš, Laktaši, Ljubinje, Ljubuški, Nevesinje, Olovo, Pale, Petrovo, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) participate in the project through Rudo, Sanski Most, Stari Grad public debates at local levels as well as in bodies representing local Sarajevo, Tešanj, Visoko, Zenica communities at municipal level, thus ensuring transparency and and Žepče. participatory process of policy development and service provision. They are also beneficiaries of grants and project funds, in implementation of local initiatives, with 10% of co-financing.

“Strengthening the Role of Local Communities – MZ in BiH” CIVIC ACTIVISM # LocalCommunities 7 Main activities - how it all started?

RESEARCH AND PUBLICATIONS

At the very beginning of the project, researches, analyses ü “An overview of the situation in the local and consultations were carried out in order to define communities and LGUs which applied for the Project common needs, priorities and attitudes of citizens, based “Strengthening the role of local communities in BiH” – on which further activities were planned. an analysis based on 603 application forms of local communities from 61 municipalities/cities in BiH. ü “Local communities in BiH: What do the citizens say?” – public opinion poll, on a sample of 5,169 ü More than 550 citizens - over 370 men and 180 respondents. women – were part of quantitative and qualitative research (through surveys, focus groups, guided ü “Reflecting on the role of the local community in BiH” discussions) during the 21 meetings held at the local – a comparative analysis of the models and practices and regional level within BiH between August and of community management, which analysed cases December 2016, where certain roles and models of 5 countries. of local community action were defined.

Core operating principles: representativeness, inclusiveness, independence, transparency, communication and cooperation with communities

Local community Local community Local community Local community as a provider of as a representative as a socio-cultural as a place services or an of community centre in a for citizens’ intermediary in interests community participation services provision

Support to democratic participation and activism

DEVELOPMENT OF LOCAL COMMUNITIES’ VISIONS

One of the main goals of the project is to help create better conditions for active participation of citizens and enable debate among relevant stakeholders so as to contribute to the creation of a new vision and the role of the local community through joint forces. To this end, 166 local communities from 84 local government units have participated and contributed to defining new visions of their communities, in cooperation with civil society organizations, academic community, representatives of the economic sector and the media. Development of the vision in Tešanj

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FORUMS AND DEBATES From May to November 2016, 204 forums were held with more than 5,500 The main priorities of citizens, citizens who participated in decision-making processes in all 132 local defined during the forum and public communities. The main topics of the forum were infrastructure, socially discussions include: excluded categories of population, youth, sports, culture, and the use of 1. construction of roads information technology. The participants defined priorities at the level of their local communities based on which project proposals were developed. 2. reconstruction of children’s playgrounds The forums were also an opportunity to capture the mayor’s promises regarding the development of the local community during the pre- 3. construction of hiking trails election campaign, thus promoting the greater accountability of elected 4. construction of sport fields representatives towards citizens. In cooperation with Foundation for Development and Democracy, we organised 23 public debates with 5. improvement of the conditions for mayors and all local communities, where different stakeholders discussed the cultural and artistic life of young the role of local communities and potential ways of improving the relations persons and cooperation between local communities and local government units. 6. launch of IT workshops and IT courses There were 102 participants in the forum of local community Zenica, for the elderly (“Open Windows 55+”) Gradišće, including a large number of women and the youth. The citizens provided suggestions and priorities for improving the quality of life in this local community, related to improving the infrastructure, but also the needs to establish a women’s club, equipping a workshop for producing traditional costumes and the adequate transportation for students. Currently, the activities are ongoing on the implementation of one of the identified priorities – setting up lighting in the local community. The forum in Gradačac in November 2016 was attended by 50 citizens, representatives of local government units, local communities, nongovernmental organizations and associations. The mayor of Gradačac municipality, Edin Dervišagić, responded to citizens’ questions and discussed issues related to infrastructure, water supply, ecology and development of industrial zones, as well as on the municipality budget, representation of all local communities in the city council, and the development strategy of Gradačac. More than 70 citizens, representatives of municipalities, local communities, youth associations, entrepreneurs, persons with disabilities and religious communities participated in the forum in Ključ with the mayor Nedžad Zukanović. The issues of infrastructure, concessions, budget, school equipment, landfill problems, unemployment, training needs and capacity building were discussed on the forum. Networking and important events In 2016, 8 regional workshops were held throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina: in Sarajevo, , Banja Luka, , Bihać, Brčko, Bijeljina and , where the activities were focused on defining the vision of the local community through a productive discussion.

At the very beginning of the project, 3 international study visits to the Kingdom of Sweden, the Republic of Croatia and the Republic of Serbia were organized for over 157 key project stakeholders from local communities and local government units, so that representatives of local government units from BiH could see some examples of good practice and get ideas that they can adapt to their communities.

Participants were given the opportunity to share this experience with 170 other stakeholders at the meeting on local communities networking and exchange of good practices, and indicate possible changes they could make in local communities, modelled on the basis of the ones in the host countries, with a focus on the system efficiency, technology use, gender equality and citizen participation.

“Strengthening the Role of Local Communities – MZ in BiH” CIVIC ACTIVISM # LocalCommunities 9 Capacity building and development TRAININGS AND COURSES After defining the priorities and setting the vision, all 132 local communities from these 24 municipalities/cities participated in the process of building their own capacities, carried out with the assistance of external associates. There were 5 interactive training programs in 7 cycles attended by over 1,215 participants: ü “Facilitation: Training of trainers for facilitators in the local community” ü “ECDL Computer Skills Training” ü “Project Cycle Management (PCM)” ü “Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) for Citizen Participation in Public Life and Decision-making” ü “Human Rights – Minorities and Socially Excluded Groups”. During a two-day Training of trainers for facilitators in Gračanica in May 2016, 37 participants from order to improve their skills of writing adequate project Gračanica, Gradačac and Petrova were trained to facilitate proposals. communication as facilitators in order to clarify views and opinions in the discussion and facilitate decision-making. In addition, one-day info sessions were organized in Sarajevo and Mostar, for potential applicants from these In co-operation with the Centre for Promotion of Civil regions, so as to help civil society organizations identify the Society, projects that have applied to the Local Initiative most common mistakes in writing projects and provide Fund have been analysed, and for the organizations for guidelines for writing successful project proposals. which the funds have not been allocated, trainings were planned and organized in Banja Luka and , in

APPLICATION OF PARTICIPATIVE METHODOLOGY IN THE COMMUNITIES, STARI GRAD, SARAJEVO After education of 6 local communities for facilitating and assemblies. Local communities will continue to propose defining citizens’ priorities, at the initiative of the chairman projects following these priorities that will be planned of the municipal council of the municipality Stari Grad for the next year in the budget of the municipality Stari Sarajevo, the methodology for defining the priorities Grad, in order to allocate the existing funds more evenly. was applied in other local communities. In this way, good After three years, the municipal council will submit practice of active citizen participation in the community to the citizens a report on the implementation of the has been expanded and implemented beyond the scope priorities, which was not the case before. This is probably a of the project. precedent in BiH that all local communities participate and get involved in forming municipal budgets. We hope that “We saw that this was the most realistic way of setting when they see the results, more people will get involved in priorities and working with communities, and we took the the activities. Citizens are delighted that the leadership is UNDP matrix and transferred that knowledge to the entire visiting local communities, asking them about issues and municipality. The municipality leadership has visited all hears from them directly, letting them know that we are local communities, we explained the methodology to here to work for them and for the general benefit of the all secretaries and local communities, and produced the population” – Sanel Dragolovčanin, Deputy Chairman of templates on the basis of which citizens can propose the Municipal Council. their priorities in local communities and outside of the

“Strengthening the Role of Local Communities – MZ in BiH” 10 CIVIC ACTIVISM # LocalCommunities From Activism to Change: Implementation of Priorities in Communities

After defining visions, articulating needs and priorities, and capacity building, citizens were given the opportunity to address some of the identified problems within their communities – the premises were refurbished, roads repaired, playgrounds constructed... Through this project, we have concrete examples of civic activism giving results not only in infrastructural projects, but also in numerous cultural, sports and humanitarian actions organized by citizens themselves.

CONSTRUCTION OF PREMISES FOR LOCAL COMMUNITIES, LJUBINJE

One example of true civic activism, as well as partnerships However, the most important aspect of building this with local government units, is the construction of centre is not the existence of the building itself, but the the premises for local communities in Ljubinje, where civic activism, initiative and social cohesion developed the municipality and citizens got together and jointly during this process. The problem and the need identified solved this problem. in the community have been solved by citizens giving their own contribution. In this way, an idea has been In the period from November to March, after arrival of revived, not just of the local community, which does the first truck with the material to Ljubinje, the local not exist in Ljubinje as a legal category, but also the population contributed with their work, skills and idea of the​​ community as a broader concept. There has energy and worked on the construction of the facility been a change of mentality and a perception in terms themselves. The municipality allocated money from its of who is accountable and should take the initiative budget, and in a very short period of time, starting from for addressing the burning issues in the community, as a single wall, the entire centre of 80-square-meters was well as the importance of cooperation and joint work of constructed. citizens with local government units.

PURCHASE OF ULTRASOUND MACHINE FOR THE HEALTHCARE CENTRE “OZREN”, PETROVO

At the initiative of the inhabitants of the local In one shift at the Healthcare Centre, up to 20 patients community Petrovo who indicated the lack of an are screened daily, and now they can also undergo ultrasound machine as a problem in their community, examinations of thyroid glands and blood vessels in the UNDP Local Communities Development Fund and Petrovo. Municipality Petrovo invested joint efforts and ensured Biljana Đurić, from the Council of the Local Community procurement of the ultrasound machine for the local Petrovo, said that citizens on the forum decided to go healthcare centre. for the implementation of the project for the purchase “The machine will significantly improve the quality of of an ultrasound machine, and as the next project she health care services for some 5,500 insured persons of this announced the procurement of an ambulance vehicle municipality, and from now on the citizens will not have to and a dental chair. travel to healthcare facilities in Doboj for examinations” – Director of Healthcare Centre Zdravko Stanić.

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CONSTRUCTION OF PLAYGROUNDS IN LOCAL COMMUNITIES SEDRENIK AND MOŠĆANICA – MUNICIPALITY STARI GRAD, SARAJEVO

“This is a nice project that came as an initiative of the local community’s citizens themselves. In this way, after only one year of partnership with the municipality Stari Grad, we have a chance to see how the civic voice can influence positive changes in the local community. It is a great pleasure to cooperate with the municipality Stari Grad, because for us it is very important to have, as we call them ‘champions’ since the very beginning of such project” – Majda Ganibegović, project manager.

Defining priorities in certain communities is based on such projects, the life in the quarter (mahala) endures, the needs and wishes of the youngest citizens, and because now people are not rushing to the city“– Aida within the project two children’s playgrounds were built Kehonjić, parent, local community Mošćanica. in the local communities of Sedrenik and Mošćanica, which are also the first playgrounds of this kind in this Lack of playing space is one of the most commonly area. raised problems in Stari Grad, but by building two playgrounds this problem has now been resolved. The What do the parents say? “We made proposals on the project was financed by the Governments of Switzerland citizens’ forum and discussed priorities, and we all agreed and Sweden with 34,000 KM, while the municipality of that the playground is what we need. Before, we had to Stari Grad ensured 10,000 KM. The opening ceremony take the kids to Centar or Novi Grad to play, and this is now was also sponsored by socially responsible companies, hitting a home run for the entire community – the school and children and parents had fun with animators, is near, all the events are happening there, and thanks to balloons, sweets, refreshments and playing balls.

The municipality Stari Grad got engaged in this project a year ago through the Local Development Sector. So far, numerous projects have been implemented: education of local community leadership structures on writing project proposals, information technologies and social inclusion, open meetings and dialogues of the leadership of municipality were organized with the citizens, two children’s playgrounds in Mošćanica and Sedrenik were built, six local communities were equipped with the state-of-the-art computer equipment, preparations have been initiated to equip the IT cabinet in local community in Kovači, as well as preparations for equipping the fitness centre for women and handicraft business on . About 170,000 KM has been invested in these projects, while an additional 150,000 KM is planned for this year.

“Strengthening the Role of Local Communities – MZ in BiH” 12 CIVIC ACTIVISM # LocalCommunities

“REKLI SMO MI, POKAŽI SE I TI” (WE SAID IT, AND YOU SHOULD TOO), ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN WITH DISABILITIES IMPULS Civil society organizations also had the opportunity to apply for financial support with project proposals focusing on socially excluded categories within partner local communities. So far, 58 organizations have applied and 27 projects have been approved, of which 18 are currently being implemented. The project “We said it, and you should too”, was initiated on the forum of citizens of the local community Ljeskovac, Bijeljina, for the purpose of inclusion and economic empowerment of women with disabilities and unemployed women. Association of Women with Disabilities Impuls from Bijeljina, which has been making handicrafts for many to be organized as an initial group in their community to years, this year brought together 22 unemployed continue with this type of work, exhibit, present, use the women who passed training in handmade jewellery village manifestations, if any, and sell their works”, stated and hand weaving. A Centre for handicraft training Tanja Milinković, Executive Director of the Association. was established, which serves not only for women with Civil society organizations point out that the key for disabilities, but also students, youth, unemployed and a successful community project is good co-operation women from socially vulnerable categories. with citizens, local government representatives – the The idea was initiated in the community, and the city and local communities, as well as with partners Association is active and well known in the area of​​ and UNDP. In addition, the participation of the non- Bijeljina, but it still took a lot of effort to activate the governmental sector in the social, economic and women involved in the project today. ecological development groups, as well as in the development of strategies, is crucial in solving the “We’ve been going from one house to another to explain problems of all the local citizens. what are we planning to do and invited them to come to the Training Centre. Although the activation of citizens “We have good partnerships with the city and other was not simple, the letters and reflections we received participants, and we are delighted to be recognized as after the training demonstrate that women are content people who work hard, know how to recognize the needs with the programme and knowledge transfer, and of the community and offer solutions” – Tanja Milinković, especially because they will have the opportunity to executive director of the Association of Women with continue working with us. We are now encouraging them Disabilities Impuls.

“Rekli smo mi, pokaži se i ti” (We said it, and you should too), in the media:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67oT7PgrVzU

“Strengthening the Role of Local Communities – MZ in BiH” CIVIC ACTIVISM # LocalCommunities 13

STARTUP DAYS - DEVELOPMENT OF CIVIC ACTIVISM AND SOCIALLY USEFUL IDEAS

One of the ways in which a project creates opportunities for activism “A good thing about these events is that development and the promotion of socially useful ideas is through they show differences in ideas, contexts and the Start-up Days organized by the Networks. The aim of these Days communities in BiH, and we have people from is to use the private sector start-up models so as to give citizens the different communities and institutions around opportunity to articulate their ideas, and in one day go through the one table who work together to find solutions process of developing such idea into the project, by learning new for the problems in some other community. This skills and developing their capacities. Start-up Days were held in creates the social cohesion that this project is Tešanj, Sarajevo, Zenica, Ljubuški, Bijeljina and Banja Luka. trying to achieve” – Jasmin Porobić, mentor and commission member at Start-up Days. The Fourth Start-up Days were held on 4 May, at the Entrepreneurial Incubator HIPod, Business Zone Zvirići, Ljubuški. Participants from Ljubuški, Jablanica, Nevesinje and Ljubinje broke the record with 34 socially useful ideas from different areas in order to help their community!

At the very beginning, the importance of start-up way of thinking in solving problems in a community was emphasized.

Examples of successful start-up ideas and business from BiH were presented...

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This was followed by brainstorming and presentation of 34 socially useful ideas, starting from production of organic honey, fruits and vegetables, projects of employment for persons with special needs, growing goji berries and industrial hemp, social network development, mobile applications and online dating platforms, increase of tourism potential, providing advisory services for young people’s career choices, recycling and paper processing, starting a hairdresser’s salon, decorative cosmetics production, and improving rural and agro tourism and opening of a chips factory in Herzegovina. After one-minute presentations, the audience voted for 8 best ideas.... This was followed by teamwork on developing ideas and responding to some “tough” questions on entrepreneurship, with useful tips from the mentors.... Eight best ideas were presented ... and the winners selected! 1. Association of Creative Women Ljubinje 2. Sweeter life for persons with disabilities (Slađi život za OSI) – production of organic honey and honey based preparations, with the employment of persons with disabilities 3. Organic production of fruits and vegetables, Ljubinje

“This was an extraordinary workshop where I was able to learn many things. We came with the idea and we go with a finished product, and I hope that in the near future this idea will come to fruition. Association of Creative Women Ljubinje will establish a tourist centre where it will be able to market and sell its products, and we also plan to have one gastronomic facility” – Desanka Radić, Association of Creative Women Ljubinje.

WHAT DO THE PARTICIPANTS SAY? “This was once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, not just for presenting our ideas, but also having people who were leading us in developing that idea and who supported us” – Slađana Mitrović - Lazarević, Petrovo, winner of the Start-up Days Tešanj.

“It was the first time for me to attend such an event, and I’m thrilled that it took us only a few hours from the idea to a project. We went back full of impressions and wishes to start with the realization of the project as soon as possible” – Draško Spasojević, Rudo, winner of the Start-up Days Sarajevo. See how it looked like in ... “Our project goal was primarily to invest the money collected from our products, such as soaps, lip balms, balms and Tešanj https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1tTlvjLHeo creams, that we would make from the extract of plants Sarajevo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SxOnw0cJjk from our environment, for excursions of students who are Zenica https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6BAPYh03Ys unable to afford it, because we believe that every student Banja Luka https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_YwguyXfpJk after the graduation from high-school deserves this unique Ljubuški https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8vYpxo3sqY opportunity” – Amila Alibegović, Team Extractor, High Bijeljina https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YrAMMkeMu2s School, Visoko, winner of the Start-up Days Zenica.

“Strengthening the Role of Local Communities – MZ in BiH” CIVIC ACTIVISM # LocalCommunities 15 Community Hubs

During public debates and forums, it was established Out of the 25 planned, so far 12 have been refurbished that communities lack adequate premises for socializing and 7 community hubs were opened: Kotor Varoš, and activities. In order to respond to this need, and Tešanj, Sanski Most, Ključ, Petrovo, Gračanica and provide a place for future project activities, premises Gradačac, while Bijeljina, Brčko and Žepče are planned of 12 community hubs were refurbished and opened. to be opened by the end of the month. All community Community Hubs play an important role in creating an hubs are equipped with furniture and ICT equipment, advanced, dynamic and healthy community because they which includes a computer, tablet, printer, scanner, fax and offer basic services and information to citizens, where they photocopier, and OHP, OHP wall screen and wall mount for can socialize, network and cooperate, engage in decision OHP. making, learn and acquire skills, organize celebrations and parties and use opportunities for social, cultural and In order to ensure sustainability, Managers of the Centres personal progress. As such, these centres also serve as have been selected for each centre, financed by the spaces for building social capital and cohesion. municipality and who will be coordinating activities and administering a web platform which is currently being tested in some of the local government units, after which the inclusion of other municipalities will follow.

COMMUNITY HUB KOTOR VAROŠ

Community Hub in the local community Obodnik has youth gatherings, movie nights, singing sessions and been opened on 21 April 2017, after the adaptation of rehearsals. the building and purchase of IT equipment with joint funds of the UNDP, the Government of Switzerland and The benefit for all local citizens is obvious because now the Government of Sweden, in the value of 18.330 KM, in we have a place for gathering, socializing and organizing which the municipality Kotor Varoš and local community celebrations. We have exceptionally good cooperation Obodnik participated. The opening ceremony served as with all partners, including the municipality and the non- a perfect opportunity for a cultural-artistic program, and governmental sector – citizens’ associations and cultural- the organization of a humanitarian action where local artistic groups, especially with the community. What is handicrafts were presented and sold. particularly important is that the young people are activated, realizing that they need to be socially active and need to help The newly established Community Hub is a unique space their local community as much as they can and create better in this area and has already proved to be indispensable conditions for their lives”, stated Snežana. and adequate for the organization and implementation of cultural, social and social- entrepreneurship programs “Through implementation of this project in cooperation with and activities, for the activities of associations and non- the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) we governmental organizations, as well as for workshops improve quality of life of citizens of our municipality through for children, seminars, projections, socializing, meetings, empowerment of the local level of government, services presentations and forums. Manager of the Center, and infrastructure at the local level, and strengthening Snežana Jurić emphasizes that various activities have democratic accountability and social inclusion” – Zdenko taken place since the opening of the Center, including Sakan, mayor of the Kotor Varoš Municipality.

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AWARDING IT EQUIPMENT

For the purpose of creating better working conditions, “The new IT equipment will enable more successful provision which will enable more accessible, efficient and good of services to citizens and improve communication with them, quality services to citizens, 132 local communities were increase the importance of local communities, and encourage equipped with a standard set of equipment consisting of citizens to greater involvement in decision-making and desktop, monitor, printer/photocopier/fax, OHP, OHP wall participation in the implementation of local development screen and tablet. initiatives. This is just one step in the revitalization of local communities” – Majda Ganibegović, Project Manager. “This equipment will enable local communities to provide better and more efficient services to citizens in the local municipalities: Luka, Bijenja, Pridvorci, Drežanj, Zovi Do and , which actively participate in the project implementation, mayor of Nevesinje Municipality Milenko Avdalović.

“This equipment will fully respond to the nowadays challenges and in full capacity correspond to the contemporary conditions of the work of local communities” – the mayor of municipality of Pale FBiH, Asim Zec.

What do the citizens say?

“This project is very good for local communities to get trained for the future, so that we are able to apply for projects independently and to raise funds for our communities” – Ankica Marković, local community Vinište Žepče.

“In the municipality of Ključ, the project “Strengthening the role of local communities” has already achieved good results so far and strengthened the role of local communities in our municipality. Primarily due to the fact that all members and local community volunteers involved in the project had the opportunity to undergo a series of training courses in order to develop the capacity and strengthen the structures of local communities, and through the Citizens’ Forums, the local citizens for the first time had the opportunity to decide on the priorities in their local communities” – Azra Kujundžić, president of the Youth Center Kosmos and project coordinator Strengthening the role of local communities on behalf of the Municipality of Ključ.

ABOUT LOCAL COMMUNITIES ABOUT STARTUP DAYS – KRENI “We wish for the local community to be a local community “It is useful to attend such events and exchange ideas and where the awareness of citizens is raised and who are able to give advices, especially for us students. Such events open up contribute to the development both of the local community opportunities and give us ideas in terms what we would like and the entire municipality of Gradačac” – Mirel Bijedić, local to do. It is also useful for young people and entrepreneurs who community Vida 1, Gradačac. need new ideas” – Doris Crnjac, Široki Brijeg.

“We are satisfied with the cooperation we achieved so far “This event gives young entrepreneurs the opportunity to with our local community, and we are using the premises for present ideas and get in touch with investors” – Ante Misetić, everyday needs of Cultural and Artistic Society Behar. The Ljubuški. local community should be more independent in decision- making and implementation of projects” – Hakija Saliković, president of Cultural and Artistic Society “Behar”, local community Tešanjka.

“Strengthening the Role of Local Communities – MZ in BiH” CIVIC ACTIVISM # LocalCommunities 17 Community champions

Interviewed by: Amila Lonić

Dragan Jošić, a young activist and a newly elected member of the Council of the Local Community of Klašnice, has been the part of the UNDP project “Strengthening the role of local communities in BiH” from the very beginning. As a legal technician, Mr. Jošić has been actively involved in problem solving for a number of years, both in his local community and in the entire municipality of Laktaši. In conversation with him, he told us about his experience of the attitude of citizens towards young people in politics, and how young people today can be activated to help their community.

How did you enter the world of activism? problem to bring people on board, it is only needed to tell them that it exists because of the citizens and they will be We, young people, always had the desire to help others, to more than willing to respond to these activities. do something good, both for the place we live in and for our local community. A group of friends and I would usually That was not the case before. The facilitator training work weekends, whether it was cleaning the garbage along itself helped me to establish communication with people, the roads, meadows or helping the elderly. Five or six years especially in situations where you talk in front of more than ago, we, the ten activists, introduced the practice of visiting a dozen people of different profiles, interests, and different companies at the level of our local community during New projects, from different settlements. So now I have come to Year’s holidays and we started to collect certain donations the situation of holding a presentation without a problem and use them to buy New Year packages and food products at the conference, in front of thousands of people, including and share them with socially vulnerable families and help the mayors of the municipalities. When it comes to young them somehow. We looked at it as a getting together, not as people’s participation in some activities, we have not had the an activism. means to acquaint them with the fact that there is a certain activity they can engage in. Something that in a way was unthinkable for me before, now it has become a routine. It How did the facilitator trainings help you with the helped me personally, and also to our local community. projects in your local community?

These trainings, as well as IT trainings, have helped me a lot, Do you think citizens seriously take young people in thanks to the professor Edo, whom I have to praise on this politics? What is your experience with them, since you occasion. It was not easy, but it gave me the initial knowledge have facilitated two forums of citizens? that I was upgrading through my experience. When the Local Community Council used to be elected in the past, a number If we are talking about acting through the local community, of people would get together and vote and the others would especially through this project, people were initially somewhat not even know about it. Those seminars and educations sceptical, but now, given the initiation of implementation really helped me in the first place in the organization. I took of these projects, people have started to seriously take this it upon myself to make a Facebook page and the Viber group project, and us who are participating activists, they contact of the local community where I included all the people who us, ask about the project process. At the beginning, this was live there and informed them about the forums. It is not a a bit harder since people had negative experiences regarding

“Strengthening the Role of Local Communities – MZ in BiH” 18 CIVIC ACTIVISM # LocalCommunities

political events, both in the RS and in the entire Bosnia and What do you think is the best way for young people in Herzegovina. People have become apolitically mindful of any our country to educate themselves on how they can kind of political action, and it was the same at the beginning help their communities, if they want, and they don’t with our local community. However, in this year, the Local know how to do it themselves? Community Council is perhaps the only part of the political sphere that has begun to deliver results and it slowly restores Today, we live in the era of information technology, time people’s faith in prosperity. As far as our local community is rich in information on the internet and social networks. concerned, people are not divided into younger and older Personally I believe that social networks are a great source of politicians, but the result is what actually matters. It is information, not just for this project, but for other things, they important for people, regardless whether they’re young or just have to be used. I also have a personal example where old, that you keep your promise. We, the younger persons, are my neighbour began to deal with bee-keeping and he was trying to exercise this approach, which has demonstrated the not familiar with the way on how to do it and the process results. In the Laktaši municipality, for the first time, the local itself. I found a Facebook group for him that is dealing with community council elections were direct. Previously, this was this matter and over a year he has gained some knowledge done in forums between closed groups of people, while this and is now actively engaged in bee-keeping. Thus, other time people really had the elections, they voted, and only at young people, if they have the will, can find information. In the level of Laktaši municipality the leadership was positively our local community we are lucky to have such municipal surprised by the citizen’s response rate, which was about 15 administration that is always at our disposal to guide us. percent, as they expected much smaller number. It shows For young people it is important to have the will, which is how people, at the level of our municipality, have seriously the first factor I’d emphasize, and the second is cooperation taken this part of the political sphere, all thanks to the results with the local government units. You need to have some and the fruits of the project activities that people are willing support, because even though you have ideas, you also need to support. somebody to help you to get it done. The foundation I had a chance to meet, Networks, run by Mr. Mehić, is at disposal for everyone in terms of providing any kind of education and cooperation needed. Young people, most often when Do you think that social networks are more helping they come across a problem, say it is impossible. Nothing is or hindering when it comes to political activism impossible, it just requires a little bit of more effort, seeking nowadays? advice from the elderly. They just have to believe in themselves At the local community level, people absolutely support and believe that they’re going to make it. activism in all spheres. The Facebook page of our local community that I have founded, and the Viber group, help me to inform people, share pictures, projects, and post content Thank you for your interest in my local community, and from the site of the local community, as well as the minutes also for me personally. Once again, thanks to the UNDP, from the forums held. People have somehow obtained an which decided to implement this project and opted for our open access through these social networks, as it is currently local community, and it is through this project that we have the only source of information. The local community opened managed to change many things. If someone told us a year up to them, to the citizens themselves, and people themselves ago that we would be in this situation, I would not believe found a way to express their satisfaction or dissatisfaction them. through the Facebook page and they got the opportunity to express their opinion about a particular private problem or a larger social problem. In this context, I’d say there are quite a few positive experiences up to now.

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DARKO KRUNIĆ, MAYOR OF MUNICIPALITY OF LJUBINJE

When and how did you join this project and what are some of your main activities?

The Municipality of Ljubinje was initially an affiliated member of the project because there were certain shortcomings, which we had to remediate. We have now solved the basic thing – we provided the offices, which were financed by the municipality. In the local municipality Dubovica, with our help and contribution of citizens, both financially and through their active participation in construction, we have refurbished a centre that was demolished, and now we have some 80-100 square meters for gathering and the activities.

What are some of the major problems that local How the citizens were invigorated then? communities face in your municipality? My Deputy, who is also the Project Coordinator and I first The main problems identified by citizens are those related talked to citizens and organized forums to gather as many to infrastructure, such as water and roads, and therefore people as possible and share with them what they can get we mostly implement infrastructural projects. In the local through the project and how it will affect them and thus community Vođeni, a mini water pool was built, since we motivated them to get involved. It is most important to citizens identified it as a problem, and it is also in the initially gain the trust of citizens, so that they would then municipality’s interest to solve this problem, therefore we be motivated to participate and define their priorities. participated with some 20,000 KM in this action, and there After that, we were paying a visit to some of their actions were other donors as well. to support them and see what they need and how we can help them in their activities so as to maintain such mutual trust and support. What was the most difficult at the beginning of the project? How do you see the role of the municipality in working When we started with this project, it was difficult to with local communities and citizens? convince people that this was something we are doing for their benefit. There was a disbelief and distrust, and we Local government units must be a link between citizens had to convince them that the municipality is a service that and local communities, and the donors. As communities will help them in implementing their ideas and solving cannot apply for funding themselves, we give them the problems. However, when people see that something has resources to work, and we also create a space and a forum been done and that the project has positive results, then for citizens to define their priorities, where we can then it is becoming easier to include them in future activities. work together.

What do they say in the region? “Every government has to respect the interests, opinions and wishes of its citizens to maximum extent. Local communities cannot only observe their narrow particular interests, but should take into account the interests of the municipality or city in which they are located” Mladen Vukelić, Head of the Department of Local Self-Government and Administration of the City of Rijeka.

“Strengthening the Role of Local Communities – MZ in BiH” DID YOU KNOW? PLANNED EVENTS ü The existence of a local community is AND ACTIVITIES obligatory in the FBiH and voluntarily in the RS ü In the Brcko District, the local communities In the forthcoming period, #LocalCommunities of have the status of citizens’ associations2 BiH will be richer in terms of: ü The citizens are best acquainted with  New Community Hubs in Olovo, Brčko, opportunities for participation through the Bijeljina and Žepče and several community local communities (74.6%)33 centres ü The local community is among the most  New computer equipment for Project frequently used participatory mechanisms Coordinators in local government units 4 (33.2%)  Reconstructed roads, water supply ü 81% of citizens who participated in local networks and school and sports fields community activities, described local community council meetings as the most useful form of local level5 involvement So that the citizens and members of local communities and local government units will have BUT the opportunity to strengthen their capacities, build skills and expand their knowledge thanks to: ü Majority – 65% of citizens have never been in contact with their local community!6  Numerous educations, trainings, seminars and workshops organized by UNDP, external ü In BiH, citizens most frequently contact local associates and civil society organizations. communities for infrastructural issues – water, roads, lighting, and administrative, social,  A new publication How to Start-up Your cultural and sports events7 Community? ü The most common cause for communication  Legal analysis of the legal framework at the with the local community is to attend one of level of FBiH and their events8.

And we will strengthen the participation and 2 Jusić, M. et al. 2016. Reflecting on the role of the local monitoring of citizens through: community in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Sarajevo: UNDP 3 Center for Civic Initiative (CCI), Report on the Status of Citizens  Civic forums with representatives of local Participation in Decision-Making Processes in BiH for 2012, government units (Banja Luka: CCI, 2013) 4 Ibid  Web platform www.mjesnazajednica.ba 5 World Bank, From Stability to Performance: Local Governance and Service Delivery in Bosnia and Herzegovina (Washington,  Use of political barometer DC: World Bank, 2009) 6 IPSOS Public Affairs. 2017. Local communities in BiH – what do the citizens say 7 Ibid 8 Ibid

Copyright UNDP 2017 Social Inclusion and Democratic Governance Sector UNDP in Bosnia and Herzegovina Zmaja od Bosne b.b. 71000 Sarajevo, i Project Manager: Quality assurance: Hercegovina Majda Ganibegović Melisa Durak, UNDP Communications Officer Tel: +387 (33) 293 400 Fax: +387 (33) 552 330 Copywriter: E-mail: [email protected] Lana Pašić For additional information please contact: Twitter: @UNDPBiH #MjesneZajednice Melisa Durak, UNDP Department for Design: Communication - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UNDPBiH/ Mirna Ćesović [email protected]

This publication was published within the framework of the project “Strengthening the role of local communities in BiH”, funded by the Government of Switzerland and the Government of Sweden, and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in BiH. The contents of this publication, as well as the findings contained therein, do not necessarily reflect the views of the Government of Switzerland and the Government of Sweden, nor of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).