Sustainable Development Discussed: UN Resident Coordinator Macdonald Visits Bratunac

SARAJevo, (Patria) - United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) Ingrid Macdonald visited Bratunac today, where she met with Mayor Srđan Rankić, and representatives of the Women's Forum Bratunac and the associations “Maja” Kravica and „Priroda“ Bratunac.

During the meeting, the UN Resident Coordinator and Bratunac Mayor Rankić discussed the current development situation in the municipality, as well as programs being implemented with the support of the United Nations team in the wider Birač region. Aligning local development strategies with the recently adopted Framework for the Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in BiH was emphasized as one way to promote inclusive and green economic development, and as a way to strengthen social protection services to ensure that no one is left behind or forgotten in the community. They also discussed improving water supply and sanitation systems, healthcare and infrastructure, as well as opportunities for small and medium-sized agricultural and tourism enterprises.

UN Resident Coordinator Macdonald emphasized that prosperous communities ensure the well-being and safety of all people within them. Therefore, it is important to react to every manifestation of discrimination and hatred, and to take the necessary measures to prevent their recurrence, and avoid the risks of destabilization.

Acts of intimidation and hate speech, such as those seen across BiH a few weeks ago, are an insult to survivors of terrible crimes and their families, including those who returned to their homes after the conflict.

In discussions with representatives of the Women's Forum Bratunac and the associations “Maja” Kravica and „Priroda“ Bratunac, the need to strengthen women's participation in decision-making processes was emphasized, with the implementation of principles from the Women, Peace and Security agenda being key to ensuring such inclusion. Challenges, as well as opportunities for the economic empowerment of women and youth, were mentioned, as well as their participation in gender-responsive budgeting in cooperation with municipal authorities and investment in small and medium-sized enterprises run by women.

The United Nations team in Bosnia and Herzegovina will continue to support projects and activities aimed at localizing the Sustainable Development Goals and promoting mutual respect within and between communities across the country, including in Bratunac and the wider region.