Nordic Forum Opens in Gothenburg: Strengthening the Ties Between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Diaspora
The Nordic Forum, the first gathering of the Bosnian-Herzegovinian community in the Nordic countries, has officially opened in Gothenburg, Sweden. The two-day event focuses on strengthening the connection between Bosnia and Herzegovina and its diaspora.
It is estimated that more than 200,000 citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina live across the Nordic region, nearly half of whom reside in Sweden. This significant presence was highlighted at the forum’s opening ceremony, which marked an important step toward fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and community engagement.
The forum brings together experts and professionals from various fields, featuring panels and lectures on democracy and human rights, medicine — including collaboration between Bosnian doctors at home and abroad — as well as economic development, entrepreneurship, and emerging technologies.
The event was initiated by a group of dedicated individuals, with the support of non-profit organizations from Sweden and Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is held under the patronage of the Embassies of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Sweden, Finland, and Estonia, as well as the Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Norway and Denmark, and supported by local institutions and successful entrepreneurs from across the Nordic region.
The BH Futures Foundation was represented at the event by Senior Scholars Ajdin Mehmedović and Ilma Hodžić, who took part in the forum’s activities, networking sessions, and presentations. Ilma Hodžić actively contributed to discussions focused on innovation, youth engagement, and the role of the diaspora in shaping Bosnia and Herzegovina’s future.
Reflecting on the experience, Ajdin Mehmedović shared his impressions:
“I've had the incredible privilege and opportunity to attend the first ever Bosna i Hercegovina Nordijski Forum in Gothenburg, Sweden. I want to give my heartfelt appreciation to the BHFuturesFoundation as always and to the entire organizational team of the forum for their amazing support, hospitality, and communication. This opportunity will be treasured in my heart and will motivate me to perfect my skills even further.
It was great working with Amina Agović to bring this forum’s brand to life. It was also a pleasure to work with Rinko Golubović on the Forum promotional video. I also want to thank Haris Čengić for the great trip around Gothenburg and everyone else involved in welcoming us to this Forum.”
According to the organizers, the Nordic Forum represents the first event of its kind, aiming to build stronger bridges between Bosnia and Herzegovina and its diaspora, and to encourage long-term cooperation in areas vital to the country’s future.