The Ministry for Human Rights and Refugees of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), in cooperation with its implementing partner Hilfswerk International, yesterday organized a roundtable within the project “Support for the Reception and Integration System for Citizens of BiH Returning under the Readmission Agreement –Phase II,” supported by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees of Germany (BAMF).
On this occasion, two protocols were formally signed: the Protocol on Cooperation in the Reception and Temporary Accommodation of Readmitted Citizens of BiH in Need within Social Protection Institutions, and the Protocol on Procedures for Reception, Escort, and Medical-Social Care and Treatment for Readmitted Individuals Dependent on Psychoactive Substances, returning under the Readmission Agreement.
These protocols were signed with the goal of continuously strengthening an effective readmission system, as an institutional contribution to fulfilling BiH’s international obligations.
The signed protocols are part of the project activities within “Support for the Reception and Integration System for Citizens of BiH Returning under the Readmission Agreement – Phase II,” supported by German federal authorities with a value of 800.000 euros, dedicated to building the capacities of BiH.
Minister Sevlid Hurtic noted that this project is significant because citizens returning to BiH often feel neglected and experience more upheaval in BiH than in their previous places of residence.
Sinisa Skocibusic, Director of the Centre for Prevention and Outpatient Treatment of Addiction in Mostar, highlighted that individuals with drug addictions are a marginalized group facing numerous challenges, which only increase when they are forced to change their place of residence.
“For this reason, signing these protocols is a continuation of activities we have previously undertaken, and today we have a formal framework. I believe this is a sustainable activity that will have a long-term impact for those in greatest need,” he concluded.
The project has been approved by the Council of Ministers and the Presidency of BiH and is of exceptional importance, as the adopted bylaws and regulations outline the procedures for reception at border crossings, transport, and temporary care for deported individuals. With these two new protocols, it can be said that this area will be fully regulated and operational across both entities and the Brcko District in BiH, Federalna writes.
