A member of a community-based organization in Bosnia and Herzegovina
has been chosen as a representative for a newly formed B&H Civil Society Committee. With strong encouragement from World Vision, Mrs. Jelena Dundiæ applied for the post and was elected. This
board of reference for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) will engage in direct dialogue with the B&H government.
'Jelena is already experienced in finding solutions for her local area.
Now she will have influence at a higher level,' says Alma Tabakoviæ, Community Development Coordinator in World Vision's Sarajevo Zonal Office. 'She sees this new role as a big responsibility and
approaches it very seriously. We will be supporting her all we can in this crucial position.'
The new government council is made up of individuals from a broad spectrum of Bosnian civil
society. Through it, the NGO sector can become a more equal partner with the government at the national level. World Vision zonal offices urged their community-based organizations to take advantage of
this opportunity for representation.
'As part of our peace-building work in Bosnia and Herzegovina, we have supported local communities in establishing Citizen Associations, and Jelena's
appointment takes the process one step further,' says National Director Sue Birchmore. 'Ultimately we hope to create a forum of ADP community-based organizations to further strengthen civil society in
these needy regions.'
Mrs Dundiæ is the chairperson and co-founder of the Aurora Citizen Association in Sokolac, a non-profit, non-political group of people aiming to bring positive
change to their area. The citizen association aims to be a voice of the community, advocating for a better life and environment.
Sokolac is a remote, rural area of Republika Srpska.
Despite poverty and deprivation, it is neglected by many development organizations, but World Vision is active through Krivaja Area Development Programs.
[ Any views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not of Reuters. ]
