EU-supported Centre for Cultural and Creative Industries Development in Banja Luka enters construction phase

The construction of the Centre for Cultural and Creative Industries Development (CCID) in Banja Luka officially began today with the signing of the works contract and the presentation of the future Centre's design. This represents an important milestone in the implementation of the EU-funded project "EU4Culture" and was marked with an event organised by UNESCO and the City of Banja Luka.

"Culture has a unique ability to connect people, foster creativity and innovation, and contribute to more inclusive and dynamic communities. This new Centre in Banja Luka will provide a dedicated space where young people, artists and creative professionals can develop their skills, exchange ideas, access mentoring and training opportunities, and connect with partners and networks across Europe and beyond. I am proud that the EU plays an important role in creating opportunities for talented people to thrive in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Concrete facts like today's contribution clearly demonstrate that the EU remains the most loyal partner and largest investor in this country. In Banja Luka and across Bosnia and Herzegovina, we are fully committed to supporting citizens realise their considerable potential across many spheres," said Head of EU Delegation to BiH and EU Special Representative in BiH, Ambassador Luigi Soreca.

The EU4Culture project, implemented by UNESCO, has a total value of more than EUR 10.7 million, including an EU contribution of EUR 8.5 million and EUR 295,000 provided by UNESCO. For the construction of the Centre for Cultural and Creative Industries Development, the EU has provided over EUR 1.5 million. Through EU4Culture, the EU is also providing an investment of EUR 900,000 to support the Museum of Contemporary Art of Republika Srpska. Moreover, EU4Culture supports initiatives in Sarajevo and Mostar, aimed at creating new opportunities for artists, cultural professionals and young people across the country.

"Our idea is to decentralise activities and establish several centres across the city - in Lazarevo, Starčevica and Lauš, as well as in the centre of Banja Luka - providing citizens with spaces for gathering, creativity, music and many other activities. This will be the first centre of its kind in Republika Srpska and Bosnia and Herzegovina. It will foster the development of the cultural and creative industries, while artists will gain access to the first film and music studios, which they will be able to use free of charge to develop their projects and bring their creative ideas to life," the Mayor said. "Within less than a year and a half, a modern, 4,000-square-metre Centre will be built on the site of the rundown market area in the Lazarevo neighbourhood, with only a minimal financial contribution from the City. I would like to thank UNESCO and the European Union for their support, with whom we have already implemented numerous important projects benefiting the citizens of Banja Luka. This project also opens up new development opportunities for us, given the significant contribution that the creative industries make to gross domestic product, as demonstrated by the experience of many European cities," said Draško Stanivuković, Banja Luka Mayor.

EU4Culture reflects the European Union's long-term partnership with Bosnia and Herzegovina, supporting projects that unlock local potential, and create spaces where ideas and talent can grow.

"UNESCO is extremely proud to be part of this important EU project, as we believe that establishment of the Centre for Cultural and Creative industries, directly contributes to the enhancement of the position of Banja Luka as UNESCO Creative City of music", said Sinisa Sesum Head of UNESCO Office in Bosnia and Herzegovina.