Bećirović in Vienna: Formation of the Global Network of BiH Diaspora an Important Step in Connecting Diaspora and Homeland

(Patria) - Member of the Presidency of BiH Denis Bećirović discussed in Vienna with representatives of the Bosnian-Herzegovinian diaspora in the Republic of Austria.

The meeting was organized in cooperation with the Union of BiH associations in Austria Consilium Bosniacum, which brings together numerous organizations and individuals engaged in preserving the identity, culture, and tradition of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Republic of Austria.

Representatives of the BiH diaspora emphasized that this is the first time that a member of the Presidency of BiH has organized an open discussion with citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Republic of Austria, in order to address important topics of interest to Bosnia and Herzegovina. They stated that one of the key challenges, from their arrival in the Republic of Austria until today, is the issue of preserving the Bosnian language, or rather Bosnian-Herzegovinian tradition and culture.

Furthermore, it was highlighted that the 170,000 citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Austria represent an immeasurably valuable potential that needs to be effectively connected with Bosnia and Herzegovina. Closer business ties, resolving the issue of dual citizenship, creating mechanisms for learning the Bosnian language, and procuring textbooks for national subjects are just some of the important topics discussed by the meeting participants with the member of the Presidency of BiH Denis Bećirović.

At the meeting, it was emphasized that the formation of the Global Network of BiH Diaspora within Bećirović's Cabinet is an important step in connecting the diaspora and the homeland. More than two million citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina live outside their homeland today, and it is necessary to establish mechanisms for strong connection and joint action. In order to successfully achieve strategic goals, the Global Network of BiH Diaspora connects a large number of BiH citizens and organizations on all continents. In previous years, numerous important projects of interest to Bosnia and Herzegovina have been realized through this network. As Bećirović emphasized, the Global Network of BiH Diaspora is open to new members and new ideas that will lead to prosperity and unity, and that will truly preserve the democratic, multicultural, and freedom-loving essence of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Bećirović pointed out that the BiH community in the Republic of Austria represents an important bridge between two friendly countries. He emphasized that citizens of Bosnian-Herzegovinian origin are excellently integrated into Austrian society and that they make a significant contribution to the development of the Republic of Austria through their knowledge, work, and engagement. It was highlighted that the BiH diaspora plays an important role in strengthening economic ties and investments between the two countries, and that numerous Austrian investors of BiH origin actively contribute to the economic development of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Diaspora representatives informed the member of the Presidency of BiH about the activities of their associations, academic organizations, cultural and artistic societies, youth and educational initiatives, highlighting projects that connect citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republic of Austria. Particular emphasis was placed on supporting projects that promote the truth about the aggression against Bosnia and Herzegovina and the genocide against Bosniaks, including the erection of the "Srebrenica Flower" monument in front of the United Nations building in Vienna.

Bećirović thanked all attendees for their dedicated engagement and stated that he will continue to provide support to initiatives that strengthen the ties between the homeland and the diaspora.

Through joint efforts and trust, relations can be further strengthened and a better future built for all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina – in their homeland and around the world.