Today, a Citizens' Forum was held at the Youth Center in Brčko, organized by the Citizens' Association “Faith and Hope” in partnership with other organizations. The event marked the final activity of a campaign advocating for the adoption of the Law on Professional Rehabilitation, Training, and Employment of Persons with Disabilities.

Speakers at the Forum included Nataša Damjanović from the association “Faith and Hope,” Bojan Bošković from UG Demos, and Sabina Ahmičić-Gušo from the Laila Foundation. The discussion focused on the activities carried out within the campaign, the results achieved so far, and, most importantly, the expectations regarding the final adoption of the law.

“The law has finally reached its final stage. We expect it to be adopted by the end of the summer. Persons with disabilities are highly interested in its swift adoption and implementation, so they can see whether this law will truly lead to changes in practice”, emphasized Nataša Damjanović. She added that “a lot has been done in the previous period—from proposing amendments to direct talks with government institutions—but the work isn’t finished until the law starts being implemented.”

Bojan Bošković emphasized that this law should not be viewed solely as an opportunity for employment in the public sector: “The law will also open up opportunities in the private sector, and this is a chance that should be seized by everyone—both employers and persons with disabilities.”

Sabina Ahmičić-Gušo highlighted the importance of work for every individual: “Work is not only an economic necessity but also a form of socialization, self-affirmation, and a sense of belonging to the community. This applies to persons with disabilities as well and carries even greater significance.”

Citizens present at the Forum emphasized that they are not asking for charity, but for the fulfillment of basic human rights that belong to them. They also pointed out the shameful fact that Brčko District is the last territorial unit in Europe to pass such a law, but added that they do not want to live in the past—they look to the future with hope that the adoption and implementation of this law will bring concrete improvements.

The importance of cooperation between different associations was also emphasized, as the citizens noted that they all work toward a common goal: creating a society of equal opportunities.

A strong community starts with inclusion — employing persons with disabilities benefits the whole society!