Transforming Security Through Equality: Bosnia and Herzegovina Sets a Global Benchmark

Bosnia and Herzegovina has reached a global milestone in advancing gender-responsive governance, as the Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina has been awarded the Silver Gender Equality Seal for Public Institutions. As the first security sector institution worldwide to receive this certification under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)’s flagship initiative, the Ministry demonstrates how measurable progress—achieving 91 percent compliance with international gender equality standards—can be achieved even in traditionally male-dominated sectors.

Driving measurable institutional change

The Silver Seal crowns more than 18 months of sustained reforms led by the Ministry of Security, resulting in concrete improvements in policies, institutional practices, and accountability systems. Through the structured methodology of the Gender Equality Seal, the Ministry strengthened gender-responsive governance by integrating equality considerations into core functions, decision-making processes, and service delivery.

Implemented through UNDP’s LEAD project, in close partnership with the Gender Equality Agency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, this work directly supports the country’s Law on Gender Equality and Gender Action Plan. The process has not only reinforced institutional capacity but also demonstrated that gender equality can enhance the effectiveness, transparency, and inclusiveness of public institutions.

Leadership and commitment to results

At the official ceremony, national and international leaders emphasized that this achievement reflects a deeper transformation in how the security sector operates and delivers for citizens.

“In the security sector, gender equality is not only a matter of equal opportunities. It is a matter of the quality of policies, the effectiveness of institutions and our ability to respond to the needs of all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This result confirms our commitment to consistently embedding gender equality standards… into the work of security sector institutions.”

Ivica Bošnjak, Deputy Minister of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina

From UNDP’s perspective, the certification underscores the value of measurable, results-driven change:

“The Silver Gender Equality Seal confirms that institutional change can be measured, demonstrated and embedded in everyday work. The Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina has shown that gender equality in the security sector is an integral part of effective administration, more accountable institutions and better services for all citizens.”

Renaud Meyer, UNDP Resident Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina

National partners also highlighted the depth and sustainability of these efforts:

“Changes like these do not happen overnight… The ultimate goal is for gender equality to become an integral part of organizational culture and a standard of work for all institutions.”

Samra Filipović‑Hadžiabdić, Director of the Gender Equality Agency of Bosnia and Herzegovina

What has changed—and why it matters

The Ministry’s efforts have translated into tangible, outcome-level results. These include improved access to protection and reintegration services for women victims of trafficking, supported by stronger referral systems and increased uptake of specialized services. At the same time, targeted measures have contributed to a sustained rise in women’s participation in the security sector, helping expand employment opportunities and gradually shift gender norms.

At the policy level, the integration of gender perspectives into key security frameworks—including those addressing small arms and gender-based violence—has strengthened the relevance and effectiveness of institutional responses. The Ministry’s contributions to international reporting processes have further ensured that progress is captured within broader gender equality and accountability frameworks.

Together, these results demonstrate that gender equality is not an add-on, but a driver of better policies, more inclusive institutions, and improved services for citizens.

Looking ahead

This milestone positions the Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a global leader in gender-responsive governance within the security sector. Building on these achievements, continued efforts will focus on consolidating progress, strengthening impact measurement systems, and ensuring sustained reductions in gender gaps over time.

As institutions worldwide engage with the Gender Equality Seal for Public Institutions, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s experience offers a compelling example of how structured approaches, strong leadership, and sustained commitment can deliver meaningful and lasting change.