Developing Sustainable Tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina .

Bosnia and Herzegovina has unique layers of history and one of Europe’s most distinguished natural landscapes. Yet, fractious governance, high unemployment, the low participation of women in the labor force, an aging population, and the emigration of skilled youth undercut the country’s prosperity. The tourism sector has the potential to address these challenges and catalyze economic growth. In 2019, the country had the third-highest tourism growth rate in the world, and tourism contributed more than 409 million euros to the economy. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has decreased tourism revenues by more than 85.6 percent and hampered the sector’s development in 2020.

USAID’s Developing Sustainable Tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina (Turizam) facilitates broad-based, tourism-driven economic growth and promotes social harmony by capitalizing on the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Turizam supports the recovery of the tourism sector from the negative impacts of the pandemic by fostering collaboration among all levels of government, industry, and community stakeholders. To transform Bosnia and Herzegovina into a more competitive destination, the project is improving the economic regulatory environment, enhancing the quality and diversity of products and experiences, professionalizing human and institutional capacity, and creatively branding and promoting Bosnia and Herzegovina to high-yield visitors.