Bosnia and Herzegovina
Overview
While nearly a decade-and-a-half has passed since the Dayton Agreements ended the war that followed Bosnia and Herzegovina’s secession from Yugoslavia—a war that saw almost 200,000 people killed and nearly 1.8 million more displaced—the country continues to face significant challenges. There is little social service infrastructure and the economy is dependent on foreign aid. Bosnia and Herzegovina is primarily a moderate Muslim country and the government maintains good relations with its small Jewish population.
Need
In addition to the ongoing challenges of rebuilding after war, which include replacing a demolished infrastructure and dealing with a still-sizable internally displaced population, the nation’s unemployment rate hovers around 30%. Impoverished, isolated, and elderly Jews are particularly at risk as there is no state-run social service network to assist them.
Response
JDC works to enrich Jewish cultural and community life, while providing health and welfare aid to Jews in need. JDC efforts include:
- The Perspektiva Initiative, a training and employment program that also functions as a support system for job seekers
- Welfare programs for Holocaust survivors
- Jewish Community Centers
Impact
JDC’s presence ensures that basic needs are met and a self-sustainable Jewish future is secure for this small Jewish community. Because of JDC:
- 100 bedridden and homebound elderly Jews living in Sarajevo and outlying communities receive home care
- 45 children living in poverty and their families receive monthly food vouchers
- 15 youngsters from Bosnia and Herzegovina are able to participate in the all-former Yugoslav children’s summer camp
» Return to Europe