The close cooperation and coordination between the Council of Europe and key project partners in Bosnia and Herzegovina, focused on the effective management and reintegration of individuals convicted of violent extremism, was reaffirmed today at the second meeting of the Steering Committee for the project Providing for effective reintegration of violent extremist offenders in Bosnia and Herzegovina (PER-VEO), held in Mostar.

During the meeting, project partners provided feedback on the project activities completed to date and shared insights and recommendations for upcoming steps.

In the first half of 2025, nine activities involving a total of 128 participants were implemented. Highlights included a training session for several local multidisciplinary teams working with returnees from foreign conflict zones, and a specialised training for prison security staff serving as designated points of contact.

The project also supported multi-sectoral cooperation to develop a training plan and program focused on the wellbeing of prison staff, along with steps to improve coordination and information-sharing mechanisms.

These activities aim to strengthen standardised operating procedures for delivering practical post-penal support to violent extremist offenders, enhance prison operational work, and promote a systematic approach to their reintegration into local communities - ultimately contributing to improved public safety and security.

The Project “Providing for effective reintegration of violent extremist offenders in Bosnia and Herzegovina (PER-VEO) - Phase I” is funded under the Council of Europe’s Action Plan for Bosnia and Herzegovina 2022-2025.