Sponsor Bosnian-Herzegovinian youth to build peace

During July and August, a range of activities focused on exploring different cultures and life experiences was implemented. Through presentations about countries around the world, young people had the opportunity to learn about different cultures, traditions, and ways of life, while meetings with volunteers and guests provided opportunities for direct exchange of experiences. At the same time, activities such as karaoke, quizzes, cooking together, photo walks, and the Eco Club offered young people opportunities to express their creativity, socialize, develop teamwork skills, and engage in non-formal learning.

An important part of the work during this period was connecting young people with the wider community. Meetings with parents, a discussion with the Mayor of Sanski Most Municipality, and the presentation of the Youth Day Centre’s work to citizens on the occasion of International Youth Day were organized. These activities contributed to strengthening cooperation with parents and the local community, increasing the visibility of the Centre’s work, and encouraging young people to participate more actively in social life.

In September, special emphasis was placed on involving young people in the preparation and implementation of Peace Week, which lasted seven days and included a wide range of educational, creative, cultural, and community activities. The programme brought together young people, representatives of various organizations, educators, volunteers, and citizens, providing opportunities for sharing experiences, learning, and building connections.

As part of Peace Week, various lectures and workshops were organized on topics related to peace, dialogue, nonviolence, environmental protection, and building sustainable relationships within the community. A special place was given to the collaborative creation of the Wall of Peace, where young people expressed their understanding of peace, tolerance, solidarity, and the world they wish to live in through drawings and messages. The programme also included a fair featuring local products and handicrafts, a concert, and performances by cultural and artistic societies, further promoting cultural diversity, tradition, and togetherness.

By actively participating in the preparation and implementation of the programme, young people had the opportunity to develop organizational and communication skills, cooperate with people from different backgrounds, and explore various approaches to peacebuilding. Peace Week further contributed to promoting the values of peace, solidarity, mutual respect, and active participation in the local community.

In October, in cooperation with the Institute for Youth Development KULT, CIM organized a panel discussion focused on young people and their needs, challenges, and opportunities for participation in the local community. The discussion brought together young people, the Mayor of Sanski Most, representatives of institutions and organizations working with young people, including the Centre for Social Work, as well as youth workers from other municipalities. The panel provided an opportunity to exchange perspectives, discuss the challenges faced by young people, and strengthen cooperation among local stakeholders working to improve the position of young people in the community.