AGP Executive Report

Drought Pressure in BiH: The Farmers’ Association of the Federation of BiH is urging cantons to declare a natural disaster over prolonged drought, saying crop yields have dropped by more than 50% in places and that rising fuel, fertilizer and seed costs plus falling purchase prices could force widespread farm closures. Early Frost Warning: A major cold intrusion is set to push temperatures down across Eastern Europe, with first morning frost expected from low-lying valleys in the Baltic to the central Balkans, raising risks for autumn planting and agriculture. Meat Import Strain: BiH imported nearly 210 million marks’ worth of fresh, chilled and frozen meat in seven months, while local farmers in Doboj Jug warn that imports and falling purchase prices are squeezing livestock and dairy producers. Mining Health Certificates Restart: In Zenica-Doboj Canton, miners’ health certificate verification has resumed for three mines after stoppages, easing a planned protest and highlighting ongoing pressure around workers’ health insurance. Heritage Under Threat: Dobor Tower is reportedly left to decay, with local communities and an NGO pushing for protection and restoration of the medieval site.

Mining & Water Risks: DPM Metals says new delineation drilling at its Brevene Porphyry South project in Bosnia and Herzegovina extends high-grade gold-copper mineralisation, with multiple long intercepts reported (including grades combining Au, Cu and Mo), renewing attention on how expanding extraction could affect local water and land management. Drought & Climate Pressure: An AFP review of European Drought Observatory data says Bosnia was among countries that saw its driest August on record, with water scarcity widespread across Europe and climate change making severe dry spells more likely. Local Heritage Under Threat: A community-led push is underway to protect and preserve the Dobor Tower, a neglected medieval monument on the Modriča–Odžak–Vukosavlje border, after decades of decay and damage. Food & Farming Stress: Bosnia and Herzegovina imported nearly 210 million marks’ worth of meat in seven months, while farmers in Doboj Jug warn that imports, falling purchase prices and harsher weather are squeezing livestock and dairy producers. Air & Health Access: In Zenica-Doboj Canton, miners’ health certificate verification has resumed for several mines after stoppages, easing a dispute that had threatened to disrupt workers’ access to required documentation.

Meat Imports vs. Farmers: Bosnia and Herzegovina imported nearly 210 million marks’ worth of fresh, chilled and frozen meat in seven months, while livestock farmers in Doboj Jug say falling purchase prices, higher costs, imports and harsher weather are squeezing them further. Mining Health Certificates: Zenica-Doboj Canton’s Health Insurance Institute resumed verifying miners’ health certificates for three mines, easing a protest after the canton had stopped certifying cards for miners and families. Drought Signals Climate Pressure: An AFP analysis using European Drought Observatory data says nine European countries hit their driest August on record, with Bosnia among them—highlighting how climate change is intensifying water scarcity. US Climate Policy Shift: The US EPA repealed limits on climate-warming pollution from coal and gas plants, a move that could worsen air quality and health impacts—an issue relevant to the region’s own pollution concerns. EUFOR Sarajevo Focus: EUFOR highlighted the “Women, Peace and Security” agenda at a Sarajevo summer school, linking community engagement to early risk detection and operational effectiveness.

Drought Watch: An AFP analysis using the European Drought Observatory says nine European countries—including Bosnia—had their driest August on record, with water scarcity hitting about 58% of the EU’s territory and central Europe hardest; satellite-based drought warnings point to rainfall, soil moisture and vegetation stress, while a study says the June–August 2026 drought pattern is now about three times more likely because of climate change. Air Pollution Policy: The US EPA is repealing limits on climate-warming pollution from coal and gas plants, rolling back the 2024 Carbon Pollution Standards that would have required major emissions cuts and also helped curb health-harming pollutants like fine particulates. Local Health Access: In Zenica-Doboj Canton, miners’ health certificate verification has resumed after the Health Insurance Institute restarted certification for miners from three mines, easing a dispute that had triggered planned protests. Regional Stability: US Senator Jeanne Shaheen warned that Russia is trying to destabilise the Western Balkans, pointing to links involving Serbia and Republika Srpska, while noting EUFOR’s role in Bosnia and NATO troop presence in Kosovo.

Drought Watch for BiH: An AFP review of European Drought Observatory data says Bosnia was among countries that saw their driest August on record, with climate change making severe dry spells far more likely—raising water-scarcity pressure across the region. Air Safety & Radiation Oversight: Bosnia and Herzegovina’s deputy foreign minister told the IAEA General Conference that the country is strengthening its legal and regulatory framework for radiological and nuclear safety, including a new cooperation project to manage and condition abandoned sealed radioactive sources to protect people and the environment. EUFOR Sarajevo Focus: COM EUFOR highlighted the “Women, Peace and Security” agenda at a Sarajevo summer school, stressing how gender equality work is built into operational effectiveness and early risk awareness. Water & Data Governance in BiH: EU4ADMIN signed cooperation agreements in Sarajevo to improve how administrative data are exchanged and used for official statistics, including links with justice and foreigner affairs bodies. Climate Policy Abroad: The US EPA moved to repeal limits on climate-warming pollution from coal and gas plants, a decision criticized for weakening protections for communities facing air pollution harms.

Drought Watch: An AFP review using the EU Drought Observatory says Bosnia and several neighbors saw their driest August on record, with water scarcity affecting much of Europe and climate change making severe dry spells far more likely. Air & Climate Policy: The US EPA repealed limits on climate-warming pollution from coal and gas power plants, a move that could worsen air quality impacts tied to industrial emissions. Radiation Safety in BiH: Bosnia and Herzegovina’s deputy foreign minister told the IAEA General Conference that the country is advancing safer handling of abandoned sealed radioactive sources, strengthening regulatory and institutional capacity to protect people and the environment. Data for Better Governance: Seven BiH institutions signed cooperation deals under EU4ADMIN to improve how administrative data is exchanged and used for official statistics, including areas like traffic and tourism. EUFOR Sarajevo Focus: EUFOR highlighted the Women, Peace and Security agenda at a Sarajevo summer school, stressing operational effectiveness and early risk awareness through community engagement. Cross-Border Work Rules: Croatia’s amendments will let professional drivers from BiH submit visa applications starting Sept. 23, aiming to reduce friction caused by Schengen stay limits.

Drought Watch: An AFP analysis using the European Drought Observatory says nine European countries, including Bosnia, hit their driest August on record, with climate change making severe dry spells about three times more likely. Water & Health: The same report notes widespread water scarcity across the EU in August, with Central Europe hardest hit—an early warning for water stress that can quickly turn into public health and ecosystem problems. Radiation Safety in BiH: Bosnia and Herzegovina’s deputy foreign minister said BiH is deepening cooperation with the IAEA, including a 2026 project to strengthen safe management of abandoned sealed radioactive sources, aimed at better protection of people and the environment. EU Data Cooperation: Seven institutions in BiH signed agreements under EU4ADMIN to improve how administrative data are exchanged and used for official statistics, covering areas like crime, demography, traffic and tourism. Wildlife & Heat Response: Reports highlight Bosnian armed forces delivering water to thirsty wild horses during heatwaves around Livno, showing on-the-ground support when extreme weather hits animals.

Drought Watch (Europe/BiH): An AFP analysis using European Drought Observatory data says nine European countries—including Bosnia—did not see a drier August than before, while drought warnings covered about 58% of the EU’s territory; satellite-based measures point to Central Europe as the hardest hit, and a new study says today’s extreme dry spells are far more likely because of climate change. Climate Policy (US): The US EPA announced it is repealing limits on climate-warming pollution from coal and gas power plants, rolling back the 2024 Carbon Pollution Standards that were projected to cut both greenhouse gases and health-harming air pollutants. Nuclear Safety (BiH): Bosnia and Herzegovina’s deputy foreign minister told the IAEA General Conference in Vienna that BiH is strengthening its regulatory and institutional framework for radiological and nuclear safety, including a 2026 technical cooperation project on managing and conditioning abandoned sealed radioactive sources to better protect people and the environment. Water & Health (EU/Europe): A separate drought-focused report notes water scarcity is widespread across Europe, raising pressure on water management and public health planning as dry conditions persist.

Wildfires & land damage in BiH: Bosnia and Herzegovina recorded about 40,000 hectares burned this summer, placing it first in the region for fire damage, with over 200 fires blamed largely on the human factor—negligence and even intent—raising fears of long-term ecosystem harm after the first heavy rains. Heatwave response for wildlife: The Armed Forces delivered drinking water to wild horses near Livno on the Kruzi plateau as hot, dry weather threatened their access to water, framing the action as protection of a key natural heritage symbol. Water safety & nuclear oversight: BiH’s Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Josip Brkić highlighted IAEA support for managing and conditioning abandoned sealed radioactive sources, stressing stronger regulatory and institutional capacity to protect people and the environment from radiological risks. Community resilience in Sarajevo: The Sarajevo Run Fest drew 3,000+ runners from 50+ countries, including a Bambini marathon aimed at getting children into active, healthier habits. Media freedom pressure: A Sarajevo debate warned that media ownership concentration, SLAPP lawsuits, and public broadcaster financial strain are undermining transparency and journalist safety.

Wildfire aftermath in BiH: Bosnia and Herzegovina recorded about 40,000 hectares burned over more than 200 fires, placing it first in the region for fire damage; authorities warn many blazes are linked to human negligence or intent, and the ecological harm can worsen after the first heavy rains. Heatwave response for wildlife: The Armed Forces delivered drinking water to wild horses on the Kruzi plateau near Livno, using a military tanker as hot, dry weather threatened the animals—framed as protecting a natural heritage symbol. Radiation safety cooperation: Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Josip Brkić highlighted new IAEA support under a national project to manage and condition abandoned sealed radioactive sources, aiming to strengthen local capacities and protect people and the environment. Media freedom and public interest: A Sarajevo debate flagged growing pressure on media freedom, including concentrated ownership, journalist safety concerns, SLAPP lawsuits, and financial strain on public broadcasting—issues that affect citizens’ access to reliable information. Data sharing for better governance: EU4ADMIN cooperation agreements signed in Sarajevo aim to improve how administrative data are exchanged and used for official statistics across multiple sectors, including crime, demography, traffic and tourism.

Wildfire Aftermath in BiH: Bosnia and Herzegovina recorded about 40,000 hectares burned in summer fires, placing it first in the region by fire-damaged area; the report warns that beyond drought and heat, many fires are linked to human negligence or intent, with consequences that can worsen after the first heavy rains. Emergency Wildlife Care: As hot, dry weather threatened animals, the Armed Forces delivered drinking water to wild horses near Livno using a military tanker, framing it as protection of a key natural heritage. EU4ADMIN Data Push: In Sarajevo, seven institutions signed cooperation agreements under EU4ADMIN to strengthen how administrative data is used for official statistics, covering areas like crime, demography, traffic and tourism. Media Freedom Under Pressure: A Sarajevo debate highlighted risks to media freedom from concentrated ownership, journalist pressure, SLAPP lawsuits, and public broadcaster financial strain. Sarajevo Run Fest: The city hosted the Sarajevo Run Fest with 3,000+ runners from 50+ countries, including the Bambini Marathon and half-marathon events.

Wildfire aftermath in BiH: This summer, fires across Bosnia and Herzegovina burned about 40,000 hectares in over 200 incidents, placing the country first in the region by area destroyed, with officials warning that many blazes are driven by human negligence or intent—meaning the damage can linger long after the smoke clears. Wild horses get emergency water support: As heat and drought threaten Livno’s wild horses, Bosnia’s armed forces delivered drinking water to the Kruzi plateau using a military tanker, framing the move as protection of a natural heritage symbol and support to civilian disaster response. EUFOR training on Mount Igman: Dutch troops with EUFOR’s Multinational Battalion finished a mass-casualty exercise on Igman, rehearsing triage, documentation, command communication and rapid evacuation—skills aimed at faster, safer responses during emergencies. Media freedom under pressure: A Sarajevo debate highlighted growing risks to media freedom in BiH, including concentrated ownership, journalist pressure, SLAPP lawsuits and public broadcaster financial strain, with calls for transparency and stronger protections. Sarajevo Run Fest returns: The Sarajevo Run Fest drew 3,000+ runners from 50+ countries, including a Bambini Marathon focused on getting children into movement and away from screens.

Wildfire aftermath in BiH: Bosnia and Herzegovina recorded the most burnt area in the region this summer, with about 40,000 hectares scorched across more than 200 fires—often linked to human negligence or intent—raising concerns about ecosystem damage that can worsen after heavy rain. Heatwave help for wildlife: Bosnia’s armed forces delivered drinking water to wild horses on the Kruzi plateau near Livno, using a military tanker as drought and extreme weather left the animals vulnerable. Water as a regional pressure point: A new analysis warns that drought and cross-border water plans in the Western Balkans are turning rivers into strategic issues, arguing for a EU-backed “Balkan Water Pact” to protect shared flows and prevent unilateral basin-shifting. Air connectivity push: ACI EUROPE urged stronger policy support for sustainable aviation growth in Bosnia and Herzegovina, citing Sarajevo Airport’s passenger traffic up 28.6% vs 2019 and connectivity up 40%, with aviation contributing around €300m to GDP. Local climate reality: Western Europe’s hottest summer on record and record global warmth in August are linked to drought and depleted rivers, strengthening the case for heat and water adaptation.

Wildfire Aftermath in BiH: This summer’s fires in Bosnia and Herzegovina burned about 40,000 hectares across more than 200 incidents, placing the country first in the region for burnt area. The report warns that beyond drought and heat, many fires are linked to human negligence or intent, with consequences that can worsen after the first heavy rains. Wild Horses Get Military Water in Livno: As hot, dry weather threatens the Livno plateau’s wild horses, Bosnia’s armed forces delivered drinking water using a military tanker, framing the move as protection of a natural heritage symbol and support for civilian disaster response. Media Freedom Under Pressure: A Sarajevo debate highlighted growing risks to media freedom in BiH, including concentrated ownership, pressure on journalists, SLAPP lawsuits, and public broadcaster financial strain—along with calls for transparency in who owns and funds outlets. Sarajevo Run Fest Draws 3,000+: The Sarajevo Run Fest kicked off with the Bambini Marathon and continued with the half-marathon and 5K, bringing more than 3,000 runners from over 50 countries—an upbeat reminder of sport and community in the capital.

Wildfire Damage in Focus: Bosnia and Herzegovina recorded about 40,000 hectares burned this summer, putting it first in the region by fire-affected area, with more than 200 fires and a worrying pattern of human negligence or intent behind many blazes. Nature Protection in Action: As drought and heat threaten Livno’s wild horses, the Armed Forces delivered drinking water to the Kruzi plateau, framing the move as support for nature and a key local natural heritage. Climate Pressure Beyond Borders: A wider report warns that record heat and drought are intensifying wildfire risk across Europe, with climate change driving longer dry spells and more flammable vegetation. Media Freedom Under Strain: A Sarajevo debate highlighted growing threats to media freedom in BiH, including concentrated ownership, pressure on journalists, SLAPP lawsuits, and financial stress in public broadcasting. Water as a Regional Issue: Analysis argues Western Balkan rivers are becoming strategic assets under drought and rising demand, calling for shared data and regional cooperation rather than unilateral water moves. Community & Health: Sarajevo Run Fest drew 3,000+ runners from 50+ countries, including a Bambini Marathon for very young children, adding a public-health and inclusion angle to the week’s local news.

Wildfire aftermath in BiH: Bosnia and Herzegovina has recorded about 40,000 hectares burned this summer, the highest figure in the region, with more than 200 fires leaving damaged ecosystems and raising concerns about what comes after the first heavy rains. Human-caused fires: Civil Protection points to the “human factor” behind most blazes, including negligence and cases treated as criminal offenses. Livno drought relief for wildlife: The Armed Forces delivered drinking water to wild horses on the Kruzi plateau near Livno, stepping in as hot, dry weather threatens the animals’ access to water. Media freedom under pressure: A Sarajevo debate warned that media independence in BiH is being squeezed by concentrated ownership, journalist pressure, SLAPP lawsuits, and public broadcaster financial strain. Sarajevo Run Fest: The city hosted the Sarajevo Run Fest with 3,000+ runners from 50+ countries, including the Persil Sarajevo Half Marathon and the Bambini Marathon. Climate context: Western Europe’s record heat and depleted rivers are adding urgency to climate adaptation, with EU data linking extreme temperatures to drought and low water levels.