Head of OSCE Mission to BiH meets Tuzla Canton Officials to discuss gender-based violence

OSCEBiH Head of Mission, Ambassador Aggeler, visits Viva žene Tuzla (OSCE) Photo details

TUZLA, 28 August 2023 - Following the recent tragic cases, the Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ambassador Brian Aggeler, conducted a series of meetings in Tuzla, aimed at discussing the alarming situation related to the ongoing challenge of gender-based violence.

Ambassador Aggeler commenced the visit with a meeting with Tuzla Canton Prime Minister, Irfan Halilagić. He commended the co-operative efforts of Tuzla Canton institutions with the OSCE Mission to BiH and its Field Office in Tuzla, underscoring the importance of these partnerships in achieving tangible results.

Addressing the recent tragic killings in Gradačac and Živinice and highlighting the gravity of the matter, Ambassador Aggeler emphasized: "The importance of an effective institutional response to cases of gender-based violence cannot be overstated. There is an urgent need to improve the work of institutions for prevention, protection, and processing of such cases, with a firm commitment to a victim-centered approach."

Ambassador Aggeler also met with Tuzla Canton Minister of Interior Hajrudin Mehanović and Tuzla Canton Head of Police Director's Office Denis Fejzić, reiterating that there must be zero tolerance to gender-based violence and that more focus must be placed on strengthening the capacities of relevant institutions in offering support, protection, and well-being to victims of domestic and gender-based violence.

At the meeting with Tuzla Canton Assembly Speaker Žarko Vujović and Deputy Speaker Boris Krešić, Ambassador stressed that effective prevention demands joint efforts of all institutions within and beyond the Canton, emphasizing that while the executive power has its role, the significance of the legislator's role should not be underestimated.

Ambassador Aggeler used this opportunity to meet with representatives of NGO Vive žene, and express his deep appreciation of the organization's impactful activities, particularly its support for survivors of war trauma, sexual violence, and domestic violence. He sought insights on local level enhancements to living conditions and victim support within local communities, placing emphasis on domestic violence survivors.

The discussions underscored the collective commitment to combat gender-based violence, fostering a comprehensive approach that integrates institutional cooperation, legislative support, and community engagement.

The OSCE Mission to BiH remains dedicated to collaborating with Tuzla Canton and its institutions to ensure the safety, well-being, and rights of all citizens, particularly those affected by gender-based violence.

Željka Šulc Bosnia and Herzegovina