A new website, stopmrznji.ba, has been launched as a crucial tool for reporting hate crimes and hate speech against LGBTI individuals in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This platform provides vital information and contacts for those who have experienced violence due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.

The initiative, led by the Sarajevo Open Centre, aims to improve the human rights of LGBTI people. The site contains information about recognising hate crimes, educational resources, and contacts of relevant institutions.

Research shows that violence against LGBTIQ people in Bosnia and Herzegovina is on the rise, with few reported cases. From 2017 to 2023, violence increased from 25.5% to 38.9%. Online violence, including hate speech, often manifests itself through threats and insults.

To address these issues, the Sarajevo Open Centre has also produced two impactful videos featuring representatives of institutions and a long-time activist for the rights of LGBTIQ people, who shares her personal experience with violence and discrimination. Both videos are available on the YouTube channel of Sarajevo Open Centre as well as on stopmrznji.ba.

As a candidate country for EU membership, Bosnia and Herzegovina must streghthen its commitment to protecting vulnerable groups, including LGBTI people. The European Commission also emphasizes the need for more effective prosecution of hate crimes.

The Sarajevo Open Centre offers free legal counseling, and contact people in cantonal prosecutor's offices and ministries of interior affairs have been appointed to help victims. Remember, you are not alone!

This initiative was implemented with the support of the project "Towards an equal, inclusive and tolerant Bosnia and Herzegovina", which is implemented within the framework of the joint program of the European Union and the Council of Europe "Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Turkey".