Friedrich Ebert Stiftung in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) is once again presenting a strong message this year through the “Men Against Violence” campaign, as part of the global initiative 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
This is one of the rare campaigns that, from the very beginning, emphasizes the importance of actively involving men in the fight against violence toward women and girls, particularly addressing the role of authority in creating a society that tolerates no form of violence.
This year’s edition places special emphasis on religious leaders and theologians, recognizing their enormous influence on society, values, and the behavior of communities across BiH. Religious institutions and their representatives hold an important place in public life; their messages have the power to shape attitudes and dismantle deeply rooted prejudices. That is why Friedrich Ebert Stiftung BiH is including the voices of six prominent religious authorities in this year’s campaign, who jointly and clearly convey that there is no place for violence in the family, in the community, or in any faith.
“Participating in the campaign are Nedzad Grabus, Sarajevo Mufti, and a respected Islamic theologian, whose messages strongly emphasize that violence against women is completely contrary to Islamic moral teachings. There is also Pavle Mijovic, professor at the Catholic Theological Faculty in Sarajevo, who stresses the responsibility of the individual and the community to protect the dignity of every person. The message of nonviolence from the perspective of the Orthodox tradition is delivered by Bishop Grigorije, known for his engagement in promoting dialogue, empathy, and human integrity. Sasa Nikolinovic, pastor of the Evangelical Church in Sarajevo, who for years has advocated for nonviolent relationships and active support for victims, also takes part. From the Franciscan Province of Bosnia Srebrena comes Fra Zdravko Dadic, provincial, who emphasizes that true practice of faith is expressed through respect, kindness, and solidarity toward those who suffer. This year’s campaign also includes an important voice from the Jewish community in BiH, Igor Kozemjakin, Jewish theologian and cantor of the Sarajevo Synagogue. His participation further strengthens the interreligious character of the campaign and sends a clear message that fighting violence is a universal obligation of all people, regardless of faith or tradition. Kozemjakin highlights the deeply rooted Jewish ethical principle of prohibiting violence and the importance of each individual’s responsibility in creating a just and safe society,” the statement reads on the occasion of this year’s campaign launch.
The campaign aims to encourage men to take active responsibility, recognize their own role in creating a safer environment, and through their actions, example, and words, build a society that does not remain silent in the face of violence. This opens space for stronger and bolder social engagement, as well as new alliances in the fight against all forms of gender-based violence.
In previous years, the “Men Against Violence” campaign included prominent journalists, politicians, and actors – people whose public work shapes social discourse and has the power to influence the attitudes of the wider community, Klix.ba writes
