Meeting in Jablanica prepares the ground for start of EU-funded flood recovery project worth €20 million

At a meeting today in Jablanica, representatives of the EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) presented the details of a flood recovery project worth €20 million to state, federal, cantonal and local institutions and authorities. This meeting provided essential information to key stakeholders to prepare the ground for the first actions under the project, which will start in the coming weeks.

During her visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina in October 2024, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that the EU would allocate €20 million to support communities affected by the catastrophic floods in Bosnia and Herzegovina earlier that month. This assistance will be delivered through a two and a half year project implemented by UNDP and IOM, "EU Support to Floods Recovery in Bosnia and Herzegovina".

This project represents an urgent intervention to address the damage caused by last year’s natural disaster in southern and central Bosnia and Herzegovina. The disaster affected a number of municipalities, with Jablanica being the most severely hit in terms of casualties and material damage. The floods and landslides caused loss of life and destroyed housing, infrastructure, public institutions, the local economy, and agriculture. “EU Support to Floods Recovery in BiH” aims to provide permanent housing solutions and support economic recovery for those affected by floods and landslides through the construction and rehabilitation of housing units and the restoration of critical public services and infrastructure. Additionally, the project will assist agricultural producers and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in reviving their economic activities.

Dr. Samir Agić, Assistant Minister of Security of BiH for Protection and Rescue stated: ‘The Ministry of Security supports all projects that contribute to the recovery of local communities. Particularly significant is the fact that international partners - the European Union, the UNDP, and IOM - are providing support with full determination to address the problems faced by both citizens and institutions, from the local to the state level. I am confident that this project, as well as others, will contribute to the faster recovery of all local communities.’

Emir Muratović, the Mayor of Jablanica, expressed gratitude on behalf of the local community, highlighting the importance of international support in rebuilding and creating a resilient future. "This initiative brings hope and practical support to our people. We are grateful to the EU, UNDP, and IOM for standing with us during this critical time," he said. 

Stefano Ellero, the Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina said: “The scenes we witnessed in October last year were heart-breaking. Through this project, we are committed to supporting the communities that were affected to begin recovering from this terrible tragedy. Activities will start soon, and our partners (UNDP and IOM) will work closely with communities to bring in priority assistance to local citizens in a manner that will be transparent and as efficient as possible”.

To ensure the highest level of transparency and fairness in the process, the selection of housing beneficiaries will be guided by a uniform set of criteria and selection methodology developed through the project. In the upcoming period, a public call will be issued to identify beneficiaries for housing rehabilitation and (re)construction. The call will be publicised through various channels, including the media, municipal websites, and representatives of local communities (mjesne zajednice). It will include key information such as eligibility criteria, details on the application and selection processes, locations for collecting and submitting applications, and relevant instructions for applicants.

Victor Munteanu, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in BiH stated: 'Today's meeting marks a significant step toward recovery and long-term development for communities affected by the devastating floods. By combining the expertise of UNDP and IOM with the generous support of the European Union, we are providing not just homes but also hope for a better future. Through the rehabilitation of housing, public services, and businesses, we aim to empower communities and ensure their sustainable recovery.'

Michael O’Mahony, Deputy Chief of Mission, IOM BiH stated: ‘The devastation caused by the October 2024 floods highlighted the urgent need for coordinated recovery efforts. With the generous support provided by the European Union, IOM and UNDP teams were among the first to arrive within the affected areas, assisting municipalities and households, while offering our expertise during this crucial period. Now, in collaboration with UNDP and our local partners, IOM is focused on providing longer term support to the affected populations, through the restoration of infrastructure, strengthening of livelihoods and economic prosperity and building community resilience to protect against future disasters. Together we will ensure that the recovery is inclusive and equitable, offering people the support they need to rebuild their lives.’

The project showcases a unified effort between the European Union in Bosnia and Herzegovina, UNDP, and IOM towards supporting disaster-affected communities and fostering long-term resilience.