OSCE Concludes its 16 Days of Activism Campaign with a Thematic Session in Široki Brijeg

Široki Brijeg, 12 December 2025 – Strengthening the implementation of laws, enhancing institutional accountability, and improving protection and support for victims were among the key conclusions of the thematic sessions in the framework of the OSCE Mission to BiH’s 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign.

Over the past two weeks, the Mission has convened decision-makers from parliaments at all levels, ministries and institutions, civil society, and political leaders to advance a countrywide dialogue on preventing and responding to gender-based violence. Through thematic sessions held in the FBiH Parliament, the Tuzla Cantonal Assembly, Brčko District of BiH, Banja Luka, and concluding today in Široki Brijeg, the Mission brought together stakeholders to identify practical steps for improving institutional responses and ensuring that laws translate into protection on the ground.

Strengthening institutional action, through coordinated multisectoral responses, consistent enforcement of legal provisions, and clear accountability, is essential to protecting victims, reinforcing the rule of law, and restoring public trust. These measures directly contribute to the stability and security of Bosnia and Herzegovina and support the country’s commitments under international human rights and gender equality standards, including OSCE commitments.

Ambassador Rick Holtzapple, Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH, emphasized the need for sustained action: “Our goal is clear: that every woman and girl in Bosnia and Herzegovina can live free from violence and fear. There can be no truly secure and safe society without safety and security for all women and girls. For this, we must enhance standardised system responses to reported cases, improve risk assessment procedure, impose urgent protection measures, and ensure adequate judicial responses and services for survivors of violence. We must also address violence through capacity building of professionals and prevention programmes targeting specific groups, including persons at risk, youth, and marginalized women.”

Today’s session in Široki Brijeg marks the conclusion of the Mission’s 2025 campaign, reaffirming its commitment to supporting authorities at all levels in preventing and combating gender-based violence and promoting a safer, more just society for all in Bosnia and Herzegovina.