Sarajevo region secures prestigious EU “Smart City” status and €2 billion credit line

The label was granted to the “Sarajevo Functional Urban Area” in February 2026. This status is more than just a badge of honour; it unlocks access to a substantial €2 billion (approximately 3.91 billion Bosnian marks) credit line from the European Investment Bank to fund green infrastructure.

Nihad Uk, the Prime Minister of Sarajevo Canton, noted that the award validates five years of successful collaboration and best practices across the three administrative zones. He outlined plans to maintain this momentum by further electrifying public transport, extending the tram network, fitting solar panels to public and residential buildings, and investing in cleaner heating systems.

Sarajevo Mayor Samir Avdic highlighted the active role of the city’s sustainable development department, which has focused on community engagement to build a robust platform for securing international grants. He called on higher levels of government to back the initiative, stressing its importance for the general quality of life in Bosnia.

Foreign Minister Elmedin Konakovic described the event as a reflection of a shared European ambition. He stated that the label confirms the region is making genuine, measurable progress toward its 2030 targets through concrete projects.

The initiative sees the City of Sarajevo, Istocno Sarajevo, and Sarajevo Canton working in tandem to bypass traditional administrative boundaries. A primary focus of the partnership is to tackle the city's notorious air pollution through sustainable mobility, clean energy, and new public-private partnerships.