Bošnjak and Arnhild Spence Discussed Priorities for Cooperation Between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the United Nations

Minister of Civil Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Dubravka Bošnjak, met with the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Arnhild Spence, and their associates to discuss the continuation and strengthening of cooperation with United Nations agencies.

The discussions focused on joint projects in the areas of healthcare, education, social policy, and sustainable development, with special emphasis on activities that directly contribute to strengthening institutions and improving the quality of life for all people in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

It was highlighted that Bosnia and Herzegovina has for many years maintained successful cooperation with several UN agencies, including UNESCO, UNICEF, UNDP, World Health Organization, and UNFPA through projects aimed at institutional development, social cohesion, and the improvement of public policies.

Particular attention during the meeting was devoted to public health, specifically programs for the prevention of cervical and breast cancer, as well as HPV immunization, which are being implemented with the support of the European Union, WHO, and UNFPA.

Minister Bošnjak emphasized the importance of comprehensive research for the implementation of prevention programs for cervical cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and prostate cancer in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The research results will be presented on Monday, May 18, at the Parliamentary Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

“These kinds of projects, as well as the EU4Health program, are important for strengthening public healthcare in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but also for connecting our institutions with European and international healthcare initiatives. Prevention, early disease detection, and better access to healthcare services must be among the priorities of public policy,” Minister Bošnjak stated.

UN Resident Coordinator in Bosnia and Herzegovina Arnhild Spence emphasized that the United Nations system remains a reliable partner to Bosnia and Herzegovina in implementing development priorities and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals within the framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for Bosnia and Herzegovina for the period 2026–2030, confirmed by the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina on January 15, 2026.

“The United Nations will continue to support Bosnia and Herzegovina in implementing projects that contribute to inclusive and green growth, human capital development, and strengthening institutional accountability and social cohesion in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is especially important to work together on programs that connect healthcare, education, social inclusion, and balanced development,” said Spence.

The interlocutors expressed readiness to continue the partnership cooperation between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the United Nations, with a shared commitment to implementing concrete projects that contribute to sustainable development.