Forum "Vision 2050" in the City of Živinice shapes a collective vision for a prosperous future

Following the successful gatherings in Breza and Ugljevik, the forum in Živinice brought together citizens, governmental representatives, non-governmental organizations, business leaders, and academics. Together, they embarked on a journey to define a shared vision for a better tomorrow.

During the event, Alija Nurkić, advisor to the Mayor of the City of Živinice, emphasized the immense value of Živinice's participation in the BiH SuTra programme, pointing to Sweden's experience in the process of just transition. "Sweden's extensive experience in just transition serves as a powerful inspiration. I express heartfelt gratitude to the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) and the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) for their invaluable support. Learning from Scandinavian countries, considering Živinice's historical reliance on coal, is pivotal. For us, it's not just a symbolic countdown to midnight; it's already past midnight by five minutes. The BiH SuTra programme has proven to be important support, providing us with new skills and facilitating the exchange of vital experiences. This initiative perfectly aligns with our vision for the future, and we eagerly embrace the knowledge it offers, guiding us toward a sustainable and green tomorrow," said Mr. Nurkić.

The participants of the event explored practical ideas to the City's challenges, coupled with a reflection on the current burning questions: "Where do we want to be and how do we want to live in the future?"

"Today's event signifies a positive development for both the local administration and the entire city. My vision for 2050 is to ensure a healthier environment, characterized by high-quality electricity sourced from renewable means. What brings me immense joy, as a representative of the coal mine, is the construction of solar power facilities in our city's rural area. These plants will not only provide jobs for our employees but also enhance their working conditions significantly. The 'Vision 2050' initiative will bring forth substantial projects and extensive employment opportunities for our workforce," stated Suad Šehić, an employee of the brown coal mine "Đurđevik".

Through active engagement and participatory exercises, attendees contributed to pragmatic dialogues, showcasing the community's hopes for a better future. Some of forum attendees highlighted the importance of children and the environment for the future. "In envisioning Živinice until 2050, my passion centers on advocating for our children's future. I prioritize creating a green city, preserving green spaces around schools and kindergartens. By empowering our children and balancing progress with environmental preservation, Živinice can flourish as a sustainable city, cherished by generations to come," said Mirzeta Abadžić, teacher of the First Primary School from Živinice.

The "Vision 2050" initiative marks the inaugural programme activity following the official launch of the BiH SuTra programme in September 2023. This programme unites four pilot local self-government units, namely Banovići, Breza, Ugljevik, and Živinice, along with the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Embassy of Sweden in BiH (Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency - Sida).

As testament to the City of Živinice's commitment to active citizen participation, an ongoing online survey has been established. This digital platform allows all interested parties, who were unable to attend the forum, to contribute their valuable insights. By harnessing the power of technology, the city ensures that the collective power and experience of its citizens shapes the future of the community.

Suggestions and comments gathered from both the forum and the online survey will be thoughtfully integrated into the comprehensive "Vision 2050" document. This dynamic compilation of diverse community perspectives will form the bedrock of Živinice's Transition Plan, scheduled for adoption in the late summer of 2024. The plan will outline concrete measures, activities, and funding sources for proposed initiatives, with unwavering support from BiH SuTra to facilitate their realization over the next eighteen months.

As the "Vision 2050" initiative progresses, the Municipality of Banovići anticipates its turn to host the final forum on 1 November 2023. During this event, both interested parties and citizens will be welcomed to actively participate, ensuring that Banovići's future aligns with the aspirations of its people.

More about the BiH SuTra programme

BiH SuTra encourages a local, bottom-up approach to create transition plans and implement comprehensive transition policies in coal regions throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. The overarching goal is to support BiH's just transition to a decarbonized and environmentally sustainable future, aligning with other development priorities. BiH SuTra will empower stakeholders to identify and implement emission-reduction strategies, promote innovative technologies and behaviours, and develop ambitious yet attainable policies.

Banovići, Breza, Ugljevik and Živinice, four local self-government units are pilot areas in the programme, with a total population of approximately 105 000 residents. These units will serve as an inspiration and model for other coal regions in BiH.

The programme is funded by the Embassy of Sweden in BiH (Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency - Sida) and implemented by the globally renowned environmental think tank, Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI).