ILO, EU and Sweden programme supports employment and entrepreneurship in Bosnia and Herzegovina

BANJA LUKA, BOSNIA and HERZEGOVINA (ILO News) - More than 800 people across Bosnia and Herzegovina have secured employment or launched their own businesses through the EU4EMPLOYMENT programme, funded by the European Union and Sweden and implemented by the International Labour Organization (ILO).

Over 6,600 beneficiaries received tailored support to improve their labour market integration. Interventions combined skills development, employment counselling, and access to jobs and self-employment. Women accounted for 60 per cent of those who found jobs or established businesses.

Results were presented at the programme's final conference in Banja Luka, Republika Srpska, which brought together beneficiaries, institutions, social partners, and implementing partners to review achievements and share lessons learned.

"These outcomes reflect not only quantitative results but also improved livelihoods and increased social inclusion."

"Employment creation and inclusive economic growth remain among the highest priorities for people across the country, which is why EU support focused on those facing the most significant barriers in the labour market," said Adebayo Babajide, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina. "These outcomes reflect not only quantitative results but also improved livelihoods and increased social inclusion."

The EU allocated EUR 4 million to the programme and reaffirmed its continued engagement through the EU4PEOPLE programme.

The Ambassador of Sweden to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Helena Lagerlöf, highlighted the importance of inclusive and coordinated approaches to employment promotion.

"After long periods outside the labour market, beneficiaries have gained employment, income, and renewed confidence. They are now able to plan their future and contribute to their communities with dignity."

Claire Harasty, Director of the ILO Office for Central and Eastern Europe, said the programme has allowed people to change their lives for the better. "After long periods outside the labour market, beneficiaries have gained employment, income, and renewed confidence. They are now able to plan their future and contribute to their communities with dignity."

Building on these achievements, EU4EMPLOYMENT has laid a strong foundation for the EU4PEOPLE programme, funded by the EU and implemented by the ILO. Launched in March 2026, the EUR 5.5 million initiative will modernize public employment services and strengthen institutional capacities to promote a more inclusive, effective, and resilient labour market in Bosnia and Herzegovina.