Call for an Expression of Interest for Participation in the Academy for Women Candidates

As part of the Council of Europe project “Supporting transparency, inclusiveness and integrity of electoral practice and processes in Bosnia and Herzegovina – Phase II,” we are pleased to launch the Academy for Women Candidates, a tailored capacity-building program designed to enhance women participation in electoral processes.

Despite existing legal gender quotas and institutional frameworks that promote equal representation, women in Bosnia and Herzegovina still face significant barriers to meaningful political participation. The Academy seeks to address this gap by offering dedicated capacity-building support to women aspiring to hold public office.

Between September 2025 and September 2026, selected women participants will take part in up to four core modules led by Council of Europe experts. These trainings will cover key areas such as the electoral process, campaigning, public speaking, and political leadership, among others.

 Who Can Apply?

• women across BiH who aspire to be on candidate lists in the electoral processes
• women who have previously run but were not elected
• women committed to gender equality, democratic values and public service
• women available and willing to participate in up to four training modules between September 2025 and September 2026

 We particularly encourage:

• Political party candidates from across BiH
• Independent candidates
• Activists from youth, minority groups and other categories of underrepresented groups

Training Format

• Training modules across different BiH regions from September 2025 to September 2026
• Each module lasts 2 days
• Topics include electoral systems, campaigning and communication, among others
• Training costs (accommodation, meals and materials) are covered by the Council of Europe

How to Apply

 Submit a CV (2 pages maximum)

 Motivation Letter (up to 300 words)

Subject line: Application for Academy for Women Candidates _CoE _Name and Last name of the applicant.

 Applications should be sent to: [email protected] 

 Deadline for applications: 15 July 2025 until 17.00h

 Any questions related to the Call should be submitted before 15 July 2025, to the following e-mail address: [email protected]