ReLOaD3: Strengthening CSO-LGU Partnerships (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

The ReLOaD3 Program in Bosnia and Herzegovina strengthens collaboration between civil society organizations (CSOs) and local government units (LGUs) to improve public services and citizen engagement. The initiative focuses on social policy, youth, culture, health, gender equality, environmental protection, and civic participation, supporting projects that promote participatory democracy and EU integration.

The ReLOaD3 Program is a multi-year initiative aimed at enhancing cooperation between civil society organizations (CSOs) and local government units (LGUs). By fostering dialogue, coordination, and partnership, the program seeks to improve service delivery, participatory governance, and policy-making at the local level.

Program Objectives

The ReLOaD3 Program focuses on:

• Strengthening participatory democracy and civic engagement

• Supporting the EU integration process in the Western Balkans

• Accelerating sustainable development through coordinated efforts between CSOs and LGUs

• Promoting transparent and accountable public funding

• Ensuring an enabling legal framework for civil society participation

• Increasing citizen engagement in policy creation, implementation, and monitoring

Thematic Focus Areas

Eligible projects should align with one or more of the following themes:

• Social policy and social inclusion

• Youth engagement and empowerment

• Culture and heritage initiatives

• Health protection and public health promotion

• Gender equality and women’s empowerment

• Environmental protection and sustainability

• Civic participation and citizen involvement

Program Governance

The ReLOaD3 Program Partnership Board in Bosnia and Herzegovina includes:

• Ministry of Civil Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Ministry of Justice of Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Federal Ministry of Justice

• Ministry of Administration and Local Self-Government of Republika Srpska

• Delegation of the European Union to Bosnia and Herzegovina

• UNDP

• Two entity associations of municipalities and cities

• Representative of civil society organizations (Advisory Group)

This board oversees program implementation, ensures strategic alignment, and monitors funded projects for impact and compliance.

Who Can Apply

• Formally registered CSOs in Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Individual organizations may submit multiple applications across different public calls

• Total funding per organization is capped at 120,000 KM for all 14 partner LGUs during the program period

Exclusions

• Organizations not formally registered as CSOs

• Applications exceeding the funding cap per organization

Project Duration

• Overall program duration: February 1, 2025 – January 31, 2029 (48 months)

• LOT1 projects: 4–10 months

• LOT2 and LOT3 projects: 6–10 months

• Implementation period for all projects: April 2026 – February 2027

Expected Outcomes

• Improved dialogue and cooperation between CSOs and LGUs

• Enhanced capacity of local authorities and civil society to design and implement public policies

• Increased citizen participation in decision-making and monitoring processes

• Strengthened local democracy and alignment with EU integration standards

• Sustainable community-focused solutions in social, cultural, environmental, and civic domains

How to Apply

1. Confirm formal registration as a CSO in Bosnia and Herzegovina

2. Identify the thematic focus area for your project

3. Prepare a project proposal including:

   • Objectives, methodology, and expected impact

   • Budget and timeline aligned with LOT1, LOT2, or LOT3 parameters

   • Plans for collaboration with LGUs and community engagement

4. Submit the application according to the ReLOaD3 public call guidelines

5. Ensure total funding does not exceed 120,000 KM per organization

Tips for a Strong Application

• Highlight partnerships with local government units

• Demonstrate clear community impact and citizen engagement

• Align objectives with program thematic areas

• Provide a realistic and transparent budget and timeline

• Include measurable indicators to assess project outcomes and sustainability

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who is eligible to apply?

Formally registered CSOs in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Multiple applications are allowed, but total funding is capped at 120,000 KM per organization.

2. What thematic areas are eligible?

Social policy, youth, culture, health protection, gender equality, environmental protection, and civic participation.

3. How long should projects last?

• LOT1: 4–10 months

• LOT2/LOT3: 6–10 months
  All projects are scheduled for implementation between April 2026 and February 2027.

4. Can multiple applications be submitted?

Yes, individual CSOs may submit multiple project proposals, provided total funding does not exceed 120,000 KM.

5. What is the overall program duration?

48 months, from February 1, 2025, to January 31, 2029.

6. What is the focus of ReLOaD3?

Fostering collaboration between CSOs and LGUs, promoting participatory democracy, EU integration, and sustainable community development.

7. Are partnerships with LGUs mandatory?

Yes. Projects must demonstrate collaboration with local government units to enhance service delivery and citizen participation.

Conclusion

The ReLOaD3 Program is a strategic opportunity for civil society organizations in Bosnia and Herzegovina to collaborate with local authorities and strengthen local governance. By supporting projects in social policy, culture, health, gender equality, environment, and civic participation, the program fosters transparent, participatory, and sustainable community development, while aligning local governance with EU integration goals.