The EU4EMPLOYMENT programme, funded by the European Union and Sweden and implemented by the International Labour Organization (ILO), has helped more than 800 people in Bosnia and Herzegovina secure jobs or start their own businesses, while over 6,600 beneficiaries received support to improve their labour market skills and integration. The initiative combined training, employment counselling, and self-employment support, with women making up 60 percent of those who successfully entered employment or launched businesses.
Results presented at the final conference in Banja Luka highlighted improved livelihoods, increased social inclusion, and greater confidence among participants, many of whom had previously been outside the labour market for extended periods. EU and ILO representatives emphasized that the programme focused on supporting groups facing the greatest barriers to employment and contributing to more inclusive economic growth.
With EUR 4 million in EU funding, the programme has laid the groundwork for the follow-up EU4PEOPLE initiative, which aims to further modernize public employment services and strengthen labour market institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The new phase seeks to build a more inclusive and resilient employment system while continuing to expand opportunities for decent work and entrepreneurship.
