On November 19, 2024, representatives of the European Union (EU) met with authorities from five municipalities affected by recent floods and landslides in Jablanica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. This meeting focused on the allocation of €20 million in disaster relief aid, announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on October 25.
Efforts are underway to ensure that funds begin reaching the affected communities by early 2025. Following discussions with officials from Jablanica, Konjic, Fojnica, Kiseljak, and Kreševo, Stefano Ellero, head of the Cooperation Department at the EU Delegation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, outlined three priority areas for the assistance: housing, municipal infrastructure, and support for the private sector.
Ellero emphasized the importance of defining objectives and priorities for fund disbursement in collaboration with local authorities and international partners. He stated, “These preparatory activities are essential to ensure effective and timely use of the funds.”
In response to the devastating floods and landslides on October 3, the EU immediately activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism and EUFOR. The current focus is on supporting affected communities in their recovery.
In addition to the €20 million announced, Bosnia and Herzegovina is also eligible for support from the European Solidarity Fund, with local authorities preparing an application for this fund.
Assistance will be distributed through implementing partners with relevant expertise and capacity to address community needs post-disaster. To facilitate practical access to the funds, the meeting included UNDP Resident Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Renaud Meyer, and Deputy Head of Mission of IOM in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Michael O'Mahony.