Vukosavlje Declared Mine-Free
The municipality of Vukosavlje in northern Bosnia and Herzegovina has officially been declared mine-free, marking an important success for the local community and the broader national mine action efforts. The declaration follows the completion of all remaining demining tasks in the municipality. While the demining process was ongoing from 1999 to 2024, the last three remaining mine-suspected areas had been awaiting funding since 2012. Thanks to the support of the Czech Republic, which recognized the importance of removing the final areas of residual mine threat, the municipality of Vukosavlje is now mine-free.
A ceremony was held to mark the occasion on 11 June 2025, bringing together key partners and local representatives. Among the guests were H.E. Jana Lolić-Šindelková, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Bosnia and Herzegovina; Mr. Bojan Rakić, Deputy Mayor of the Municipality of Vukosavlje; Mr. Enis Horozović, Director of the Bosnia and Herzegovina Mine Action Centre (BHMAC); representatives from the BHMAC Regional Office Banja Luka; and ITF Enhancing Human Security.
Vukosavlje's mine-free status is a milestone for the municipality, where mine contamination has long posed a threat to residents, agriculture, and development. Clearing every remaining area has opened the way for safer daily life and future investments.
What makes this achievement especially important is the continued engagement of the Czech Republic in Bosnia and Herzegovina, dating back to 1998. As one of the most dedicated and long-standing ITF donors, Czech support also enabled the completion of the final demining activities in Vukosavlje.
At a time when international attention often shifts elsewhere, the contribution of the Czech Republic ensured that demining efforts in this municipality were fully concluded. This kind of targeted and timely support is crucial - particularly for smaller, less visible communities where remaining contamination still poses a serious risk. By enabling the final steps of demining, the Czech Republic contributed meaningfully to long-term safety and stability in the region.
ITF is proud to have been part of this effort and expresses sincere gratitude to the Czech Republic as well as all involved actors. Each mine-free municipality brings Bosnia and Herzegovina one step closer to its goal of becoming mine-free.