Bosnia and Herzegovina holds 2025 EUSDR Presidency

Bosnia and Herzegovina succeeded Austria as the Presidency of the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR) from 1 January to 31 December 2025. The EUSDR, established in June 2011, serves as a collaborative framework for countries in the Danube Region to tackle common issues. A distinctive feature of the EUSDR is its inclusive approach, bringing together EU Member States and accession countries to address mutual concerns on equal footing.

Throughout its presidency, Bosnia and Herzegovina is dedicated to accelerating the European integration process, particularly for Western Balkans. Addressing the challenges of brain drain, youth unemployment, and demographic changes, Bosnia and Herzegovina focuses on policies related to youth, education, skills development, and labour markets.

The presidency also prioritises:

• Security, Civil Protection, and Disaster Preparedness: Enhancing regional cooperation in civil protection and disaster readiness.
• Tourism and Culture: Promoting the Danube Region as a premier tourist destination, fostering sustainable recovery post-pandemic through innovative and resilient strategies.
• Connectivity and Green Transition: Advancing digital and energy connectivity, optimising renewable energy use, and promoting regional energy markets in line with the European Green Deal.
• Education, Skills, and Labor Market: Improving education and training systems to provide equal opportunities and access to quality, inclusive education and employment.

The presidency also emphasises the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), gender equality, and strengthening women’s role in the Danube Region. Institutional goals include deeper involvement of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations in EUSDR activities and exploring opportunities arising from the new Growth Plan for the Western Balkans.

A highlight of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Presidency will be the 14th EUSDR Annual Forum, which will be held in Sarajevo from 5 – 6 November 2025. It will be preceded by the 12th Danube Participation Day on 4 November. These events aim to synergise implemented activities and gather stakeholders from the Danube Region and beyond.

For more information, please visit the source page of this announcement: https://danube-region.eu/bosnia-and-herzegovina-holds-2025-eusdr-presidency/