Feminist Time Travel Through Bosnia and Herzegovina
Feminist Time Travel Through Bosnia and Herzegovina
Contributor(s): Rubina Čengić (Editor), Enida Čamdžić (Translator)
Subject(s): Politics, Gender Studies, Education, Civil Society, State/Government and Education, Social development, Family and social welfare, Demography and human biology, Social Norms / Social Control, Socio-Economic Research, Sociology of Art
Published by: Fondacija CURE
Keywords: BiH; feminism; activism; gender; rights; voice; education; policy; socio-economic status; women; results visibility;
Summary/Abstract: This publication brings together 21 deeply personal stories of women activists who share their journeys of activism, feminism, and their visions of Bosnian society. These narratives, though seemingly straightforward, invite profound reflection on the lived experiences of these remarkable women. They reveal the challenges they have faced in their relentless fight for visibility and recognition of the women’s movement. Each story is a testament to the struggles, achievements, and unwavering dedication of women who have broken stereotypes, challenged societal norms, and fostered meaningful change in their communities.
Series: Fondacija CURE — Priručnici
- E-ISBN-13: 978-9926-413-21-7
- Print-ISBN-13: 978-9926-413-21-7
- Page Count: 82
- Publication Year: 2024
- Language: English
Fighting for Ourselves, We Change the World
Fighting for Ourselves, We Change the World
(Fighting for Ourselves, We Change the World)
- Author(s):Vlasta Marković, Nikolina Gagić, Jovana Bojanić
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Gender Studies, Civil Society, Sociology, Social Norms / Social Control, Sociology of Politics
- Page Range:12-16
- No. of Pages:5
- Keywords:BiH; feminism; younger generation; activism;
- Summary/Abstract:Recognizing that the future lies with young people and that only young women can sustain the flame of women’s activism, the CURE Foundation selected Jovana Bojanić (Sokolac), Nikolina Gagić (Srebrenica), and Vlasta Marković (Tuzla) to share their expectations. These young activists, born during or shortly after the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina, represent a new generation of change-makers.
Results Have Been Achieved in Many Areas
Results Have Been Achieved in Many Areas
(Results Have Been Achieved in Many Areas)
- Author(s):Besima Borić
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics, Gender Studies, Education, State/Government and Education, Social Norms / Social Control
- Page Range:17-22
- No. of Pages:6
- Keywords:BiH; gender studies; feminism; results; reforms;
- Summary/Abstract:Besima Borić is a politician, social democrat, committed leftist, and activist. She is a retired professor of her native language and literature with a long teaching career in elementary and high schools. Besima has served as a councilor in the Vogošća Municipal Council, a representative in the Sarajevo Canton Assembly, a member of the House of Representatives of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and a minister in the Sarajevo Canton Government from 2001 to 2002. Twenty years ago, she founded the first women’s association in Vogošća, Korak više (“A Step Forward”). From 2002 to 2006, she coordinated the Gender Equality Task Force under the Stability Pact for BiH (GTF BiH). Through her work, she developed a model of cooperation with civil society organizations and trade unions in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region. Besima frequently writes about social democracy, social policy, gender equality, and the contributions of women to State Antifascist Council for the National Liberation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (ZAVNOBiH). She is a highly regarded figure in activist circles, always ready to lend her support.
Everyone Should Contribute to Society
Everyone Should Contribute to Society
(Everyone Should Contribute to Society)
- Author(s):Nada Marković
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics, Gender Studies, Civil Society, Sociology, Social Norms / Social Control
- Page Range:23-26
- No. of Pages:4
- Keywords:BiH; gender; feminism; activism;
- Summary/Abstract:Nada Marković, from the village of Repovac near Bratunac, founded the Women’s Association Maja Kravica in Kravica in 2001. She later established Bosnia and Herzegovina’s first women-led agricultural cooperative, the General Agricultural Cooperative Žena (Woman). Since then, she has been dedicated to empowering women in all aspects of their lives. The cooperative, registered as a social enterprise, brings together around 30 women cooperatives, including members of marginalized groups such as rural women, survivors of domestic violence, war victims, women with disabilities, and others.
We Can Do More and Better
We Can Do More and Better
(We Can Do More and Better)
- Author(s):Esma Drkenda
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Gender Studies, Civil Society, Sociology, Social Norms / Social Control
- Page Range:27-31
- No. of Pages:5
- Keywords:BiH; gender; feminism; activism; NGO;
- Summary/Abstract:Esma Drkenda served as the president of the Women’s Association Seka in Goražde until May 2024. From 2007 to mid-2024, she was the coordinator of the Center for Education, Therapy, and Democratic Development Kuća Seka (Seka House). She is the recipient of the City of Goražde’s Golden Plaque for her continuous, long-standing work in the non-governmental sector and her outstanding actions in the field of promoting gender equality.
Guardians of Patriarchy Are Very Persistent
Guardians of Patriarchy Are Very Persistent
(Guardians of Patriarchy Are Very Persistent)
- Author(s):Ifeta Škoro Ćesir
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Gender Studies, Civil Society, Social Norms / Social Control
- Page Range:32-36
- No. of Pages:5
- Keywords:BIH; gender; activism; feminism; patriarchy; norms;
- Summary/Abstract:Ifeta Ćesir Škoro is the Executive Director of the Citizens’ Initiative of Mostar, an organisation that, as she says, was accidentally born out of pure volunteerism and the enthusiasm of the citizens of Mostar who wanted to change the situation in the city and remind the local authorities in the City and Canton that they must act in the general interest of all citizens of Mostar.
Women Must Be Economically Independent
Women Must Be Economically Independent
(Women Must Be Economically Independent)
- Author(s):Ifeta Mejremić
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Gender Studies, Labor relations, Social Norms / Social Control, Socio-Economic Research
- Page Range:37-40
- No. of Pages:4
- Keywords:BiH; gender; activism; feminism; women; economic independence;
- Summary/Abstract:Ifeta Mejremić from Konjević Polje is the founder of the Jadar Women’s Association, which has been operating for 21 years, helping women who are victims of violence and providing support for their economic empowerment. Ifeta is also an entrepreneur – she owns a broiler chicken farm and previously, during her time as a refugee in Tuzla, ran a shop. Before the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina, she worked as a textile technician at the Bilećanka factory in Gacko.
Young People Should Be Taught That We Are All Equal, Yet All Different
Young People Should Be Taught That We Are All Equal, Yet All Different
(Young People Should Be Taught That We Are All Equal, Yet All Different)
- Author(s):Neira Raković, Daliborka Hadžišehić, Aida Feraget
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Gender Studies, Sociology, Social development, Social differentiation, Demography and human biology, Social Norms / Social Control
- Page Range:41-45
- No. of Pages:5
- Keywords:BiH; gender; feminism; activism; young generation; differences; values;
- Summary/Abstract:There are women who say they don’t have to do anything anymore because they’ve done enough in their lives. These women are often described as being in the prime of their lives – fulfilled, accomplished, and doing only what they truly want. Among them (listed alphabetically) are Aida Feraget (Sarajevo), Daliborka Hadžišehić (Doboj), and Neira Raković (Bihać).
Our Mothers Didn’t Raise Us to Be Silent
Our Mothers Didn’t Raise Us to Be Silent
(Our Mothers Didn’t Raise Us to Be Silent)
- Author(s):Ana Kotur Erkić
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Gender Studies, Civil Society, Social Norms / Social Control
- Page Range:46-51
- No. of Pages:6
- Keywords:BiH; gender; feminism; silence; voice;
- Summary/Abstract:Ana Kotur Erkić, a native of Banja Luka currently living in Brčko, focuses on the rights of people with disabilities but comes from a background in human rights organizations. Her childhood and upbringing unfolded in two parallel worlds – one filled with regular obligations like daycare, school, and studying, and the other with doctors, exercises, rehabilitation, and institutions.
I Broke the Generational Pattern of Raising Children
I Broke the Generational Pattern of Raising Children
(I Broke the Generational Pattern of Raising Children)
- Author(s):Elvedina Dina Alić
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Gender Studies, Social development, Family and social welfare, Social Norms / Social Control
- Page Range:52-55
- No. of Pages:4
- Keywords:BiH; feminism; gender; social development; children;
- Summary/Abstract:“Elvedina Alić from Konjic: feminist, activist, humanitarian, peacebuilder, and friend. A mother of four grown children, a wife, and a cohabitant with three cats – though I prefer not to call myself their owner. I have a passion for writing and enjoy my hobbies, especially decoupage. I don’t have ‘free time’ because I see life as freedom, and I use my time rationally, even when idling. I’m happy to have the privilege of being aware of the small successes I savor and for which I am grateful. I like to describe myself as a woman with superpowers, which I recognize in my choice to be useful to my community, to other women, children, animals, and to live a life that respects nature and everyone’s right to be who they are.”
The Obstacle Is Believing You Have No Right to Be Happy
The Obstacle Is Believing You Have No Right to Be Happy
(The Obstacle Is Believing You Have No Right to Be Happy)
- Author(s):Anela Kozica
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Gender Studies, Psychology, Social development, Social Norms / Social Control
- Page Range:56-61
- No. of Pages:6
- Keywords:BiH; feminism; gender; state of mind; happiness;
- Summary/Abstract:Anela Kozica founded the informal Facebook group Special Mama (Posebna mama) to support mothers of children with disabilities – a community of 2,000 women who often find that the first help they receive comes directly from this group. Kozica explains that in everyday communication, it is correct to use both terms “child with a disability” and “child with challenges,” but emphasizes that it is inappropriate to offer help when it is not requested or to give charity simply because a child has a disability. A few years ago, Anela experienced the heartbreaking loss of her daughter Emina. She is now a mother of two and works at the Give Us a Chance Service Center (Servisni centar Dajte nam šansu) in Sarajevo. Anela proudly identifies as a feminist.
We Must Not Pass Ethnic Intolerance on to the Young
We Must Not Pass Ethnic Intolerance on to the Young
(We Must Not Pass Ethnic Intolerance on to the Young)
- Author(s):Adisa Likić
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Studies in violence and power, Demography and human biology, Inter-Ethnic Relations, Social Norms / Social Control
- Page Range:62-63
- No. of Pages:2
- Keywords:BiH; feminism; activism; ethnicity; conflict; young generation;
- Summary/Abstract:Adisa Likić from Vareš is the founder of the “Zvijezda” Association (“Star” Association), which was initially intended to support women who survived wartime sexual violence, regardless of their ethnic background. However, she explains, “It quickly became clear that every woman needs support, regardless of wartime experience.”
The Importance of Every Individual Is Enormous
The Importance of Every Individual Is Enormous
(The Importance of Every Individual Is Enormous)
- Author(s):Mersida Mešetović
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Gender Studies, Sociology, Social development, Social Norms / Social Control
- Page Range:64-67
- No. of Pages:4
- Keywords:BiH; feminism; individuals; importance;
- Summary/Abstract:Mersida Mešetović is one of the few women in Bosnia and Herzegovina who has had a successful military career and later founded an association for women who served in the Army of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Elderly Are a Powerful Investment
The Elderly Are a Powerful Investment
(The Elderly Are a Powerful Investment)
- Author(s):Roksanda Mičić, Varja Nikolić
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Civil Society, Demography and human biology, Gerontology, Social Norms / Social Control
- Page Range:68-71
- No. of Pages:4
- Keywords:BiH; feminism; activism; senior citizens;
- Summary/Abstract:Activists Varja Nikolić (Sarajevo) and Roksanda Mičić (Istočno Sarajevo) have extensive experience in activism – one publication would not be enough to list all their achievements. Speaking about age and activism, Roksanda Mičić says that it is good to “retire” at the age of 65, but only from formal employment and eighthour workdays, not from the activities one chooses and plans for oneself.
Everything Is Easier When We Have Money
Everything Is Easier When We Have Money
(Everything Is Easier When We Have Money)
- Author(s):Dubravka Kovačević
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Gender Studies, Family and social welfare, Social Norms / Social Control, Socio-Economic Research
- Page Range:72-75
- No. of Pages:4
- Keywords:BiH; activism; feminism; socio-economic situation;
- Summary/Abstract:Dubravka Kovačević is the director of the Foundation for Women’s Empowerment. Thirty years ago, she began contemplating how to economically empower women, especially in rural areas. After graduating in mechanical engineering, she pursued studies in economics and gender studies. Her master’s thesis in gender studies focused on the economic empowerment of women and the economic status of women from marginalised groups, such as Roma women, single mothers, returnees, and survivors of war rape. She applied her knowledge in underdeveloped municipalities where women often lacked employment opportunities.
Activism Yields More Visible Results in Smaller Communities
Activism Yields More Visible Results in Smaller Communities
(Activism Yields More Visible Results in Smaller Communities)
- Author(s):Amira Avdić
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Gender Studies, Civil Society, Sociology, Social Norms / Social Control
- Page Range:76-78
- No. of Pages:3
- Keywords:BiH; feminism; activism; smaller communities; results visibility;
- Summary/Abstract:Amira Avdić has been the president of the Women’s Association Srce i Duša (Heart and Soul) in Prokosovići near Lukavac for more than ten years. Since her youth, she has been involved in various activities in her local community, participating in youth organisations and the KUD Modrac cultural society. For forty years, she worked in the RK Vijenac in finance and accounting. She is a mother of two daughters and a grandmother to five grandchildren.
Art Connects Women the Fastest
Art Connects Women the Fastest
(Art Connects Women the Fastest)
- Author(s):Lenka Ljevak Stajić
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Gender Studies, Sociology of Art
- Page Range:79-80
- No. of Pages:2
- Keywords:BiH; feminism; activism; art; connection;
- Summary/Abstract:Lenka Ljevak is the founder of the association Jake žene Pale (Strong Women of Pale), created to engage women in the local community to improve general living conditions, the status of women – particularly older women – and environmental protection.
About the CURE Foundation
About the CURE Foundation
(About the CURE Foundation)
- Author(s):Author Not Specified
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Gender Studies, Civil Society
- Page Range:81-81
- No. of Pages:1
- Keywords:CURE; Foundation; about;
- Summary/Abstract:The CURE Foundation is a feminist-activist organisation in Bosnia and Herzegovina commited to advancing gender equality and women’s rights, building peace, and combating gender-based violence through various forms of activism. The organisation focuses on empowering women through education, networking, and promoting a non-violent and inclusive culture.
About the Feminist Time Travel Project
About the Feminist Time Travel Project
(About the Feminist Time Travel Project)
- Author(s):Author Not Specified
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Gender Studies, Civil Society
- Page Range:82-82
- No. of Pages:1
- Keywords:project; "Feministički vremeplov"; CURE;
- Summary/Abstract:Feminist Time Travel is a project by the CURE Foundation, running from 1 January to 31 December 2024, aimed at providing women with a completely new concept of self-care and strengthening their capacity to confront trauma and challenges.
