Bosnia’s Human Rights and Refugees Ministry, in partnership with Hilfswerk International, hosted a roundtable on Wednesday as part of the project “Support for the Reception and Integration System of Citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina Returning under the Readmission Agreement – Phase II.” The project is backed by Germany’s Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF).

At the event, two key protocols were signed: the Protocol on Cooperation in the Process of Reception and Temporary Accommodation of Readmitted Bosnian Citizens in Social Welfare Institutions, and the Protocol on Procedures for Reception, Escort, and Medical-Social Support for Readmitted Persons Dependent on Psychoactive Substances. Both protocols aim to bolster Bosnia’s readmission system, ensuring a solid institutional approach to meeting international obligations.

The project, funded by Germany with an investment of € 800,000, seeks to strengthen Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capacity in this area. Minister Sevlid Hurtic emphasised the importance of the project, noting that returning citizens often feel overlooked and face more challenges upon their return than they experienced abroad. He stressed the need for continued cooperation and dialogue to ensure returning citizens can more easily reintegrate.

Minister Alen Seranic of Republika Srpska’s Ministry of Health and Social Welfare highlighted the carefully coordinated efforts that respect the roles of all involved institutions. He praised the Ministry for Human Rights and Refugees for its exemplary work on the project.

Sinisa Skocibusic, Director of the Centre for Prevention and Outpatient Treatment of Addiction in Mostar, remarked that drug-dependent individuals face unique obstacles, particularly when relocating, and welcomed the new protocols as a structured framework for ongoing support.

Approved by Bosnia’s Council of Ministers and Presidency, the project includes established methods for reception at border crossings, transportation, and temporary accommodation for deported individuals. With these two additional protocols, Bosnia’s readmission system is now comprehensively regulated and ready for implementation across both entities and the Brcko District.