Soreca: Bosnian youth will be future EU citizens

Speaking at the opening of the conference "Youth and European Integration – Challenges and Opportunities," an event highlighting the crucial role of youth in the EU integration journey, Ambassador Soreca emphasized that Bosnia and Herzegovina must find the strength to overcome its current serious political and constitutional challenges – and that vital energy, he affirmed, resides within its youth.

Elvira Habota, Director of the Directorate for European Integration, echoed this sentiment, stressing the significant potential of BiH's young people to be driving forces in the European integration process. To fully unlock this potential, she asserted, their complete inclusion is essential.

She further noted the Directorate's dedicated focus on young people and civil society organisations working on youth issues, highlighting today's conference as a tangible example of these ongoing efforts.

Justin Coulson, representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in BiH, shared her inspiring experiences meeting numerous young people in BiH brimming with ideas, energy, and leadership qualities, all eager to contribute to their country's sustainable development goals and European integration.

The conference features three engaging panel discussions: "Research on Youth Attitudes – Perspectives and Expectations," "European Integration for Youth – Benefits and Opportunities," and "Strategic Approach to Improving the Status of Youth." These discussions will delve into research findings, the importance of collaboration among civil society organisations, the adoption of strategic frameworks, future steps to boost youth engagement, and inspiring examples of successful practices from neighbouring countries.

This significant conference was jointly organised by the Directorate for European Integration and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Civil Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the organisation Humanity in Action, as part of the vibrant celebrations for Europe Day and European Week in BiH.