ZDK Government and Minister Šimunović Support Returnee Communities: Contracts Signed for 20 Return Sustainability Projects

(Patria) - In the building of the Government of Zenica-Doboj Canton (ZDK) today, contracts for the allocation of financial resources for programs and projects significant for return sustainability were ceremonially signed.

The Minister of Labour, Social Policy, and Refugees of ZDK, Antonio Šimunović, signed the contracts with representatives of 20 associations, thereby formalizing support for projects with a total value of 50,000 KM.

The funds were allocated through a public call aimed at associations of displaced persons and returnees, and initiatives in the areas of cultural and historical heritage protection, ecology, sports, and the preservation of traditional values were supported.

Minister Šimunović emphasized the importance of this support for strengthening local communities.

- These contracts are not just financial support, but a confirmation of our commitment to stand with the people who have returned to their homes.

The selected 20 projects cover a wide range of activities – from procuring audiobooks for blind individuals in Doboj Jug, through ecological actions in Maglaj – to sports and cultural events in Žepče, Vareš, Zavidovići, and Olovo.

Each of these activities directly contributes to a better quality of life and strengthens social cohesion on the ground – Šimunović stated.

The maximum amount per project was up to 7,500 KM, and the commission selected projects based on strict criteria, including the number of returnees among the association's members and their past work results.

The beneficiaries of the funds thanked Minister Šimunović and the ZDK Government, emphasizing that this is a crucial incentive for the survival of associations that are often the sole bearers of social life in returnee local communities.

All projects must be implemented, and funds justified by the end of the current year.