Combating corruption, improving quality education and Roma status, high on the agenda of Ambassador Aggeler’s visit to Mostar

Mostar, 12 April 2023 -  Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ambassador Brian Aggeler, visited Mostar today where he met with range of Cantonal, religious, media and NGO partners.

During the meeting with the Prime Minister of Herzegovina Neretva Canton, Nevenko Herceg, Ambassador Aggeler emphasized the Mission’s support to the Herzegovina-Neretva authorities and institutions in regards to the implementation of the new cantonal anti-corruption strategy, including through capacity building activities for the anti-corruption team.

Furthermore, the meeting provided an opportunity to discuss the curriculum reform process in Herzegovina-Neretva. “I would like to commend the Herzegovina-Neretva authorities for initiation of this crucial process and reiterate Mission’s support”, said Ambassador Aggeler.

On the occasion of the International Roma Day, Ambassador Aggeler opened a Conference on Good Practices and Lessons Learnt concerning Implementation of the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton Action Plan for Improving the Position of Roma. “The Mission promotes good governance and advocates for the development of key documents supporting Roma rights and Roma empowerment. This is crucial for establishing and utilizing mechanisms towards addressing the needs of Roma in the areas of education, employment, housing, property rights and access to social protection and health services,” stated Ambassador Aggeler.

During the visit, Ambassador Aggeler also met with Jozo Pavković, Editor in Chief of Večernji list BiH, discussing state of media affairs in Herzegovina and outlet’s current and future plans.

The visit to Mostar was also an opportunity for Ambassador Aggeler to meet with Mostar Mufti, Salem eff. Dedović, and discuss the current situation about the enjoyment of fundamental freedoms, including freedom of religion and belief, and the interreligious dialogue in Herzegovina.

Finally, Ambassador Aggeler concluded his visit meeting Orhan Maslo, founder and director of Mostar Rock School, a notable cultural project in Bosnia and Herzegovina. He commended the initiative for its promotion of valuable community values and cohesion and pledged the Mission's ongoing endorsement of this and similar projects.