The European Union has committed EUR 13.5 million to enhance Bosnia and Herzegovina’s management of irregular migration and combat organised crime. This funding is intended to empower national authorities to lead migration efforts, align practices with EU standards, and foster social cohesion, with implementation in collaboration with IOM, UNHCR, and UNICEF.
Ambassador Luigi Soreca, Head of the EU Delegation and EU Special Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, highlighted that the initiative marks a significant step toward a locally led, rights-based approach to migration. Strengthened institutional capacities will enable authorities to coordinate migration flows more effectively, safeguard community interests, and contribute to overall social stability, while also supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s alignment with European migration management standards.
Key state bodies, including the Ministry of Security, Ministry for Human Rights and Refugees, Ministry of Civil Affairs, and Service for Foreigners’ Affairs, will receive targeted support to fully assume responsibility for migration-related tasks. The funding will assist authorities in managing Temporary Reception Centres, improving border management in line with EU norms, and ensuring that assistance and registration procedures respect human rights.
The EU support will also enhance the capacity of national institutions to deliver critical humanitarian services, such as food, water, sanitation, hygiene, healthcare, and other essential aid to migrants. Cantonal public health authorities will be supported to provide timely medical care to people on the move across the country.
In addition, the project will promote social cohesion by supporting local communities and civil society organizations. Grants and technical assistance will foster trust and cooperation at the local level, encouraging positive interactions between host communities and migrants.
The initiative, formally titled “Individual Measure to Strengthen Management Systems of Irregular Migration and Fight Against Organised Crime in Bosnia and Herzegovina,” aims to enable the country to take full ownership of migration management while promoting stability, protection, and integration in line with EU values and international standards.
So far, EU support in Bosnia and Herzegovina has provided shelter and essential aid to over 200,000 migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees, demonstrating the EU’s ongoing commitment to solidarity and partnership.
