Cultural Tourism in BiH as the Next Stop of Economic Growth

Students of Faculty of Economy and Academy of Performing Arts from the University of Sarajevo and students of Economy, Department of Tourism, from the University of East Sarajevo, discussed today the opportunities and challenges for further development of cultural tourism and the impact it has on economic growth of BiH with Ambassador Johann Sattler, Head of the Delegation of the European Union and EU Special Representative in BiH.

“Cultural tourism has become increasingly important in recent years, as more and more tourists seek authentic experiences that allow them to immerse themselves in the local culture. At the same time, this type of tourism has a significant impact on the local economy, supporting businesses and creating new jobs. As a country with a unique cultural heritage, an endless variety of natural attractions and recognizable hospitality, BiH has a huge potential for the development of tourism, which can play a key role in the economic future of BiH,” said Ambassador Sattler.

Panel discussion was organised as part of the new programme of the EU in BiH for students from BiH’s state universities “Generation Change”. The debate with students was also attended by Benjamin Sturtewagen, Head of Diplomatic Office of the Kingdom of Belgium in BiH, Asja Krsmanović, Manager of Sarajevo Film Festival Competition Programme, and Zana Karkin, an entrepreneur and founder of the concept store Bazerdžan.

The importance of cultural tourism in the tourism industry cannot be emphasized enough, said Asja Krsmanović, Manager of the SFF Competition Programme, the largest film event in region and one of today’s panellists. „For 30 years, the SFF speaks in favour of the fact that it is possible to design and continuously run socially useful and responsible project which develops and creates cultural content but also fosters economic growth and offers the possibility for work experience to hundreds of young people every year,” said Krsmanović.

Student of the Faculty of Economy from the East Sarajevo University Stevan Pavlović commends the fact that students have a chance to be heard in this European Union’s Project. There is a plan to continue with the participation. “I currently have some ideas, and need to consult my colleagues about them. It is highly likely that we will apply today and come up with a creative solution to continue this story aimed at promotion of tourism and our country.“

In the next phase of the #GenChange project, young people will get an opportunity to be part of a winning team that will travel to Brussels this summer.

In the next two months Ambassador Sattler will together with the EU Member States Ambassadors visit public universities across BiH and discuss with students different topics that matter to them but also to progress of BiH towards the EU. During six events which will take place in Zenica, Sarajevo, Tuzla, Mostar, Banja Luka and Bihać, the Ambassador will meet more than 800 students and have the opportunity to listen to the new generation of future leaders in BiH and to respond to students’ questions.

Europa.ba