The next strategic project in the Balkans?

Bosnia and Herzegovina is re-emerging as an extractive hotspot and a battleground for global geopolitical competition over critical mineral resources (CRMs). Around twelve new CRM mining sites are currently under development at various stages. These developments are also accompanied by specific socio-ecological conflicts and growing local resistance. 

With the launch of the publication: “New Mines – Old Conflicts: Socio-Ecological Mobilisation in Bosnia and Herzegovina”, cases of citizen mobilisation against mining are mapped for the first time in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), thus placing the country on the global map of socio-environmental movements.

The publication analyzes the main drivers of conflict surrounding new mining projects in Bosnia and Herzegovina and investigates the reasons behind local opposition. It maps ongoing citizen mobilizations and related socio-ecological struggles linked to critical raw material (CRM) extraction. The report provides an overview of eight selected conflict cases and additional mining projects, including those involving bauxite, coal, and lead.

At the same time the event will also examine the existing "strategic project" in the neighboring country Serbia: the Jadar project, which has triggered a large protest movement opposing the extraction of critical raw materials. The EU’s approval ratings and credibility have been significantly damaged by the lithium deal and the designation of the Jadar project as strategic — a position that is also reflected in Serbia’s sustained and unprecedented strong pro-democracy movement, that has now been ongoing for a year.

What is the situation around planning mining projects in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia? What are the different actors and interests? How is European intervention interpreted in the current geopolitical setting? What lessons should the EU draw from this for its mining interests in the region, particularly in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and the neighboring countries?

Study presentation and discussion with

• Majda Ibraković, Eko BiH, Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Nataša Mazalica, Center for Environment, Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Jovan Rajić RERI, Serbia
• N.N. DG ENEST (tbc)
• N.N. European External Action Service (tbc)

Moderation: Annette Kraus, Heinrich Boell Foundation Berlin

Venue 
Thon Hotel City Centre
Avenue du Boulevard 
Bolwerklaan 17
1210 Brussels
Bergen Room

Organizer
Heinich Boell Foundation Berlin, Sarajevo & Belgrade

Information
Katja Giebel
E giebel@boell.de 
East and Southeast Europe Division