MAG has announced the closure of its programme in Bosnia and Herzegovina, after nine years of successful work, due to global aid budget cuts.
Since 2017, the programme has delivered significant achievements that have made a real difference to communities across the country, clearing 14.8 km² of land, returned 45.8 km² safely back to families and farmers, destroyed 4,091 explosive items, and helped over 15,000 people live free from fear.
Most notably, in May, MAG was proud to announce the successful completion of demining operations in the Brčko District and the Čelić municipality, which became the second municipality in the Majevica area to be declared mine-free after MAG completed works in Ugljevik last year. These milestones have created safer homes, strengthened livelihoods, and renewed opportunities for development.
Pauline Boyer, MAG’s Country Director for Bosnia and Herzegovina, said: “30 years almost to the day since the Dayton Accords were signed, Bosnia and Herzegovina remains committed to peace and stability and has worked hard to ensure safer lives for its people. As a programme, we are honoured to have played our part. As a result, communities can now look to the future with greater confidence. We are grateful to everyone – from local partners to national authorities – for their cooperation and steadfast commitment to peace. We hope they carry forward with pride the impact we have made together.”
Darren Cormack, MAG CEO, said: “This year has seen significant challenges across the sector linked to funding and shifting geopolitical priorities. In that context, closing a programme is never an easy decision, but we are immensely proud of the significant contribution our teams have made throughout these past nine years. The team’s successful completion of their final task – now formally handed over to local authorities – stands as a testament to the dedication that has defined our staff from the very beginning. Their commitment, professionalism and resilience – right to the very last day – have embodied the very best of MAG.”
Learn more about MAG's work in Bosnia and Herzegovina here and around the world here.
