Challenges in Bosansko Grahovo
Bosansko Grahovo is a small, impoverished town in southern Bosnia & Herzegovina that suffered severely during the 1990s war. With collapsed industry, political tensions, low investment and poor leadership, the town is now in decline. Its population of around 2,500 faces high unemployment and limited future prospects.
The lack of informal education in these patriarchal rural areas further limits women’s access to training, keeping them in a cycle of poverty.
Udruženje građanki Grahovo: Empowering Rural Women
The most dynamic force for change in the town is the women’s organization Udruženje građanki Grahovo. Their mission is to improve the quality of life for women and girls in rural areas, focusing on safety, independence, and employment access.
Despite the challenging context, they work to increase women’s skills, promote their entry into the labor market, and encourage participation in decision-making spaces. In 2023, they received flexible funding support from EWI.
Real Impact: A Story of Transformation
Danka: “Of all the citizens trained in computer and office skills, a special group stood out: ten middle-aged women. They knew everything—from gardening and politics to community affairs—but had never touched a computer.
That year, local elections were coming. Every evening, people wondered why the lights were on in our counseling center. Curiosity grew. As the training expanded, young people, women, and men joined.
Then one day in June, a woman came in saying: ‘I want to run for Mayor as an independent candidate.’ She had no party behind her—just determination.
Her opponents were men with strong backing—it looked like David vs. Goliath. But our women had new tools: they organized a campaign, created flowcharts and digital plans, and went door-to-door advocating for her.
The energy, strategy, and confidence these women displayed amazed me. They had learned to use social media, send hundreds of emails, and create momentum.
And then it happened: our town elected its first woman Mayor. Without the digital training, it wouldn’t have been possible.
But beyond the election, we gained something greater: thirty women and girls who now know how to use computers confidently. Knowledge is power—and these women now know everything, even technology!”
What Has Changed
By supporting a trusted grassroots organization, rural women gained the confidence to apply for public tenders and jobs that require computer and administrative skills. This led to an increase in trained, employable women who are now active in their communities and contributing to local development.
This initiative proves that with targeted support and community trust, real transformation is possible—even in the most remote and underserved places.
