The Y-Peer network in Bosnia and Herzegovina serves as a powerful example of how youth-led initiatives can drive progress towards the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, with a strong focus on advancing SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Through interactive workshops, active community engagement and comprehensive education, Y-Peer empowers youth across 17 cities across the country, including Lukavac, Tuzla, Milići, Banja Luka, Bihać, Bijeljina, Bosanski Petrovac, Brčko, Cazin, Istočno Sarajevo, Kakanj, Mostar, Omarska, Prnjavor, Sarajevo, Teslić, and Živinice. These initiatives promote values of peace, non-violence and gender equality—key pillars for achieving sustainable development in the region. The diverse demographics and cultural richness of these cities make each engagement distinct, contributing meaningfully to a broader national dialogue on inclusivity and social cohesion.
In post-conflict contexts like Bosnia and Herzegovina, youth continue to face deep-rooted divisions. Negative stereotypes, hate speech and gender inequality remain prevalent challenges. Y-Peer actively addresses these challenges by equipping youth with essential leadership, communication and conflict resolution skills, with the goal of building a more inclusive, cohesive and peaceful society. By emphasizing skills that transcend cultural and ethnic barriers, Y-Peer empowers young people to challenge stereotypes and foster mutual understanding across diverse communities.
Emin Fafulić (27) from Kakanj states: "This project allowed me to connect with young people from different backgrounds and collaborate on peacebuilding. It also gave me the opportunity to work with young Roma women in my community, fostering their inclusion and participation".
This initiative directly supports SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by prioritizing the inclusion of marginalized groups, including the Roma population.
Y-Peer’s approach not only strengthens youth capacities but also fosters a lasting impact within communities. By integrating Y-Peer methodologies into university curricula, such as those at the University of Bihać and the Faculty of Pedagogy in Banja Luka, the program advances SDG 4 (Quality Education) and ensures its long-term sustainability. The inclusion of socio-emotional learning and developmental psychology within these courses equips future educators with the tools needed to promote peace and equality.
Aleksandar-Rade Ćorović (30), a Y-Peer participant from Banja Luka, shares: "Through Y-Peer, I developed my ability to lead workshops and communicate effectively with youth. This experience boosted my confidence and prepared me to work in the NGO sector".
His story illustrates how Y-Peer contributes directly to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), as the skills he gained have translated into tangible professional opportunities and career growth.
Y-Peer places a strong focus on gender equality, ensuring that young women are not only active participants but also key leaders in the peacebuilding process. Neira Zulić (24) from Bihać shares:
"The project profoundly changed my perspective on societal issues and connected me with like-minded individuals. It also helped me refine my communication and mediation skills, essential for promoting peace".
This commitment directly supports SDG 5 by empowering young women to step into leadership roles and actively contribute to building a more inclusive society. Through the Y-Peer platform, these young women are provided with meaningful opportunities to challenge gender norms and advocate for equality at both personal and community levels.
Y-Peer has positively influenced youth in 18 cities across Bosnia and Herzegovina, including Sarajevo, Banja Luka and Mostar. Each city offers unique perspectives and challenges, showcasing the transformative power of diversity in building mutual understanding and social cohesion. Through workshops, intercultural dialogues and community events, Y-Peer has played a crucial role in advancing peace and inclusion on a national level.
Y-Peer’s success is deeply rooted in its multi-sectoral partnerships, which are central to achieving SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). By collaborating with ministries, NGOs, media and IT companies, the initiative continues to broaden its reach and effectiveness, ensuring sustainable and far-reaching impact.
With support from the UN Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund, Y-Peer in Bosnia and Herzegovina actively contributes to the regional initiative “Youth 4 Inclusion, Equality & Trust.” This effort focuses on enhancing youth capacities to promote constructive narratives and inclusivity, effectively addressing regional challenges while contributing to broader global peacebuilding efforts.
Through youth-driven initiatives such as Y-Peer, Bosnia and Herzegovina is making significant progress toward achieving the SDGs by promoting peace, gender equality and economic opportunity. These efforts demonstrate how empowering youth serves as a catalyst for advancing the 2030 Agenda, resulting in tangible benefits for local communities and strengthening global partnerships.
United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
Palais des Nations, Geneva
