On December 30, 2025, the Addiction Prevention Strategy of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina 2025–2035 was adopted. The process of drafting and adopting the Strategy was coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Education and Science, with professional and advisory support from the Addiction Prevention Compentence Centre. Following the endorsement of the Government of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Strategy was adopted by both chambers of the Parliament of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina – the House of Representatives and the House of Peoples.

The Addiction Prevention Strategy is a comprehensive strategic planning document that guides future activities in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina with the aim of reducing risks and negative consequences associated with addiction. It encompasses the prevention of substance use disorders (including alcohol, tobacco products, and other psychoactive substances), as well as behavioral addictions, such as gambling, excessive internet use, and other forms of compulsive and risky behavior.

The main objective of the Strategy is to establish a systematic and comprehensive approach to addiction prevention through coordinated action by institutions, organizations, and local communities. The Strategy is aligned with European and international standards and is based on scientifically grounded and evidence-based prevention practices.

What Does Its Adoption Specifically Mean?

The adoption of the Strategy has established a long-term operational framework for the next ten years, enabling coordinated planning of measures, programs, and budgetary priorities in the field of addiction prevention at the level of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Particular emphasis is placed on the implementation of prevention programs that have been scientifically proven to be effective and that are not based on fear-based approaches, but rather on understanding addiction-related problems, strengthening protective factors, and reducing risk factors at the individual level. The aim is to reduce the practice of implementing unverified activities and interventions that are often carried out according to the principle of “better something than nothing,” as such approaches not only fail to produce benefits but may also cause additional harm.

Preventive activities and programs should be implemented across all life settings in which people spend their time—schools, families, workplaces, local communities, and through the media, as well as through the improvement of public policies and legislative solutions that reduce the availability of risk triggers and protect public health.

This strategic document lays the foundation for the development and advancement of addiction prevention in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina over the next decade, with the goal of ensuring long-term effective and sustainable prevention approaches. The Addiction Prevention Compentence Centre will continue to provide professional and advisory support in the process of implementing the Strategy.