OSCE Mission: Strengthening the Role of Women in BiH Political Life

(Patria) - The OSCE Mission in BiH announced today that ahead of the 2026 elections, it is undertaking many key initiatives aimed at strengthening the integrity and transparency of elections and supporting the work of the BiH Central Election Commission.

The Mission also remains one of the key advocates for women's rights to run in elections and implements a number of programs aimed at strengthening the role of women in political life.

As part of these efforts, the Mission organized a meeting today in Sarajevo, on the day the 2026 General Elections were called, with female politicians from across the political spectrum.

The goals of the meeting were:

• Affirming political commitment to the Principles of Political Engagement for the Elimination of Violence Against Women;

• Strengthening support for priority measures, including legislative changes to improve institutional effectiveness in responding to violence against women;

• Providing a structured platform for female politicians, including young women, to articulate key messages and concerns ahead of the 2026 election cycle.

The meeting focused on the role of political parties in ensuring zero tolerance for violence, promoting gender equality, and supporting the meaningful participation of women in decision-making.

Key legislative and institutional measures were also discussed, with a particular focus on the obstacles faced by young women in politics.