Post-Conflict Research Center (PCRC)

This second edition of our annual internship newsletter highlights the key role our interns play in the work of PCRC. Interns bring a variety of experiences and academic and professional backgrounds that help to shape our organisation. Read more about their experiences at https://lnkd.in/d6AmfgSA #PCRCBiH #PCRCInterns #youth #InternshipInBosnia

In the article written by our Banjaluka correspondent Melani Isović, economic violence is highlighted as a hidden yet pervasive form of abuse that strips women in Bosnia and Herzegovina of financial independence and traps them in abusive relationships. Through controlling finances, denying access to resources, and preventing employment, perpetrators deepen victims’ dependence, leading to psychological consequences like depression and anxiety. Stories from survivors reveal the lasting impact of this abuse, as well as the challenges they face in rebuilding their lives, despite efforts from NGOs and safe houses to provide economic empowerment. Read more at https://lnkd.in/dYJ5NZUb #BalkanDiskurs #PCRCBiH

The village of Pecka, located between Mrkonjić Grad and Šipovo, has transformed from a nearly abandoned area to an economically sustainable community, thanks to the renovation of an elementary school into a hostel and the establishment of a Visitor Center. Over the past decade, 80 houses have been built, and Pecka has been recognized as one of the most beautiful villages in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The village now offers activities such as hiking, cycling, mushroom picking, along with local food and hospitality, attracting visitors and volunteers from around the world. > https://lnkd.in/deARn--5 #PCRCBiH #BalkanDiskurs

In celebration of love and unity this holiday season, we share our "Love Tales" with you! This multimedia and artistic initiative was created to document the stories of successful romantic relationships between individuals of different ethnic backgrounds in Bosnia and Herzegovina. These stories challenge the narrative that such relationships are non-existent or unsustainable in the current social order. They serve as an inspiration and a reminder of the power of love in overcoming divisions and building a more harmonious future. More at https://lnkd.in/dVG2dekX #PCRCBiH #BalkanDiskurs #LoveTales #Bosnia

In December we took part in the latest WPS Centers of Excellence Seminar Series on ''Briefing on the WPS Index: Exploring Women’s Status in the Western Balkans''. Hosted by the Regional Center of Excellence for Women, Peace, and Security in Kosovo (founded by Vjosa Osmani, president of Kosovo), in partnership with the , and the U.S. Department of State - Secretary's Office of Global Women's Issues, the event delved into the methodology, structure, and current rankings of the WPS Index. Thank you to Vjosa Osmani for the invite! 🇧🇦 🇽🇰

Lana Ferizović's story reminds us of the power of childhood innocence. During the siege of Sarajevo, Lana sang in the "Palčići" choir, spreading messages of peace and hope even under granades. Today, as a doctor and professor, she teaches and inspires new generations through music. "I have forever remained a ʻThumbelinaʼ," says Lana, believing that song can overcome even the darkest times. > https://lnkd.in/dqGbvqrn #PCRCBiH #BalkanDiskurs #SarajevoSiege #OpsadaSarajeva

Three years ago this month, we officially presented the pedagogical manual "Holocaust & Peace – Lessons from the past for the future". The manual is a practical support and didactic guide for educators and teachers, offering contemporary teaching techniques, resources and lesson plans. Its goal is to create new spaces for learning and researching history, the causes of conflict and violence, as well as prevention and the fight against revisionism and denial. The manual is the result of years of cooperation between the Post-Conflict Research Center, the Institute of Educators for Human Rights and the ZFD Forum Bosnia and Herzegovina. In terms of its themes, it is unique in the region and the first of its kind in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The manual is available at https://lnkd.in/ecH7fDgd #Holocaust #peaceeduction #teachers #mir #PCRCBiH

🌟 While we await the first of 15 articles by the new #BalkanDiskurs correspondents, let's remember what last year's training, held from October 31 to November 4, was like. 🗓️ The participants shared their impressions, and you can read them at https://lnkd.in/dcV573VJ. #BalkanDiskurs #PCRCBiH #BDyouth

In celebration of love and unity this holiday season, we share our "Love Tales" with you! This multimedia and artistic initiative was created to document the stories of successful romantic relationships between individuals of different ethnic backgrounds in Bosnia and Herzegovina. These stories challenge the narrative that such relationships are non-existent or unsustainable in the current social order. They serve as an inspiration and a reminder of the power of love in overcoming divisions and building a more harmonious future. More at https://lnkd.in/dVG2dekX #PCRCBiH #BalkanDiskurs #LoveTales #Bosnia