Stories Changing the Labor Market in FBiH: Without the Fund, I Would Never Have Gotten a Job

(Patria) - Persons with disabilities are increasingly finding their place in the labor market in the Federation of BiH, thanks to programs implemented by the Fund for Professional Rehabilitation and Employment of Persons with Disabilities of FBiH.

In accordance with the legal framework and continuous public calls, the Fund enables employers to hire persons with disabilities under general conditions, with financial and professional support. More than 8,000 allocated incentives and a 20% employment growth in 2025 clearly show a commitment to a more inclusive labor market.

The Fund publishes public calls for employment and self-employment twice a year, and so far, 8,079 incentives have been awarded, including 5,417 for indefinite-term employment. Employers who hire a person with 60% or more disability are entitled to an incentive ranging from 18,000 to 32,400 KM, depending on the degree of disability and the type of contract.

Real examples

Energoinvest highlights that hiring persons with disabilities brings new energy and quality to work collectives. Speaking about the importance of social responsibility, director Mirza Ustamujić said that "we must take care of the most vulnerable categories," adding that employees with disabilities "reciprocate that attitude in the best possible way, as they bring energy, joy, and enthusiasm" to the work environment.

Continuing, employee Nedim Mašić shares his experience, emphasizing how much the employer's understanding means to him.

"I go for therapy every morning and have no problem coming an hour or an hour and a half late. The director has provided me with a parking space within the company premises, and that makes things much easier for me," said Mašić.

Mustafa Herenda says something similar, emphasizing that prejudices should not determine anyone's capabilities.

"They think we can't perform certain tasks, but that's wrong. The Fund helped me because it employed me, and I feel equal," he explains.

Importance of institutional support

Positive experiences also come from the Public Institution Old People's Home Tomislavgrad. Director Marija Lučić highlights a long-standing partnership with the Fund, while employee Ruža Miškić emotionally describes how much her job has changed her life.

"I'm doing great at work. I've come out of house arrest, I'm working, I'm having fun, I feel normal, just like everyone else," she said.

One of the most sincere messages comes from Dario Lukić, the janitor at the Home, who very clearly emphasizes the importance of the Fund's support. "Since I am disabled, you can't easily get a job. Without this Fund, I would never have gotten a job," he states.

Enisa Bektešević from the tailoring shop "Zlatna nit" also appreciates the Fund's support.

"The support meant a lot to me while the employee was getting used to the job. She is very responsible and hardworking, and I am very satisfied," she emphasizes.

These stories show that the Fund provides important financial support, and besides that, it opens doors that have been inaccessible to many for years. And when those doors open, persons with disabilities show that they know, can, and want to work, just like everyone else.