Promotion of cultural tourism and empowerment of Women from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia
Forty exhibitors from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia showcased their craftsmanship in creating handmade items using traditional techniques—knitting and crocheting—during Diplomatic Day, held as part of the first Handicraft Colony in Tuzla. The motifs presented were from folk costumes characteristic of the border areas of both countries, and the original motif comes from a woven carpet.
The colony was organized by the Association of Bosnian Handicrafts BHCrafts in partnership with NALED and the Ethno Network from Serbia within the framework of the project “Together for Cultural Tourism - Cross-Border Cooperation for Better Socio-Economic Development and Preservation of Traditional Crafts,” implemented with financial support from the European Union.
Alma Halilović, Assistant Mayor of Tuzla for Economic Development, Entrepreneurship, and Agriculture, emphasized the importance of such initiatives in improving the economic position of women and raising awareness about the importance of cultural heritage. “We are honored that the City of Tuzla was chosen to host the first Handicraft Colony and that the guardians of our tradition are actively participating in this project. This is an opportunity to present and promote the richness, beauty, and splendor of the folk crafts and creativity of our country,” Halilović added.
Ferdinand Koenig, Head of Communications and Spokesperson for the EU Office in BiH, highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting traditional handicrafts and artisanal works. He added that this project “is an example of effective initiatives realized through EU IPA funds, showcasing the tremendous advantages of cross-border cooperation that, in turn, foster regional integration.” Koenig concluded that “the EU remains committed to helping BiH achieve its full tourism potential, allowing visitors to experience the unique culture and tradition that BiH has to offer.”
Denis Bećirović, Minister of Trade, Tourism, and Transport of Tuzla Canton, emphasized that the event is important for encouraging local entrepreneurship and the development of cultural tourism. “The development of cultural tourism represents a key strategy for diversifying BiH’s tourism offer and valorizing the richness of traditional culture and heritage. Cultural and ethno forms of tourism attract an increasing number of visitors who seek authentic experiences and products, as well as the opportunity to get acquainted with local traditions, ways of life, and old crafts. Therefore, promoting tourism that supports the preservation of these crafts can also aid in the economic prosperity of local communities.”
Violeta Jovanović, President of the Ethno Network and Executive Director of NALED from Serbia, emphasized that organizing this colony sends an important message of mutual support and unity of women for the benefit of our region. “Women are the bearers of the highest virtues of these areas, guardians of memory and heritage, symbols of hope and reconciliation. With adequate support, they can be the carriers of successful coexistence and development in all areas of life, from culture to the economy,” Jovanović added.
Lejla Radončić, Executive Director of BHCrafts, explained that this project supports at least 60 women from 18 municipalities in the two countries and aims to promote their joint work and establish bridges of cooperation. “The colony brought together women from various parts of BiH and Serbia to create handicrafts featuring motifs characteristic of our region, using symbols that connect us. This project provides a strong impetus for the empowerment and improvement of the economic position of women, primarily in rural areas. As a final result, we will have joint products that will be made in both countries,” Radončić concluded.
