Bijeljina serves as an example of a local community that has made significant progress in recent years. For a long time, it has been a positive example of coexistence of different religious communities, making it a city that the United Nations seeks to collaborate with through various projects. This was stated during a meeting between representatives of the UN Women agency, the “Lara” Foundation, and the Mayor of Bijeljina, Ljubiša Petrović.
 
“We are implementing numerous projects across Bosnia and Herzegovina, with new initiatives planned, focusing on the economic empowerment of women who are victims of violence. Three countries are currently interested in funding projects addressing gender-based violence. Additionally, some project activities will provide support to Social Welfare Centres and Public Kitchens throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina,” said Mersiha Zulčić, a representative of UN Women in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
 
Since its founding, the “Lara” Foundation in Bijeljina has been working to protect women and children from violence and now manages a Safe House. According to Radmila Žigić from the foundation, one of the biggest challenges victims face after leaving the Safe House is difficulty in finding employment. The City Administration has recognized this issue.
 
“Given that employment is crucial, we will again issue a Public Call this year for participation in the employment program for marginalized groups, explicitly ensuring that women victims of domestic violence are included. Additionally, we plan to organize a major Women’s Entrepreneurship Fair with the participation of associations and organizations from across Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the City providing organizational support. We want to send a positive message from Bijeljina, demonstrating our collective commitment to supporting women and their economic empowerment,” emphasized the Mayor of Bijeljina, Ljubiša Petrović.
 
In recent years, the City Administration has successfully implemented projects in cooperation with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the UN Women agency, particularly in the field of education.