This Field visit aims to enhance understanding of forest management in the Western Balkan countries/territories by examining the current situation, ongoing projects, and key challenges in the region.
The visit focuses on engaging with key stakeholders from relevant Ministries in Serbia, Republic Srpska, and Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Discussions covered the development of forest management strategies, financial planning, ongoing projects particularly those supported by the EU and counterpart contributions.
Additionally, meetings with universities and vocational school representatives assess existing training materials and identify capacity development needs. A crucial aspect of the visit involved direct engagement with local state forest managers to gain insights into forest management planning. This included field visits to evaluate forest conditions, observe the implementation of forestry activities, and interact with local forest workers.
The concept of lifelong learning and strengthening educational capacities in the forestry sector were the main topics discussed at the study visit facilitated by SWG RRD for representatives of the GFA Consulting Group and HessenForst from Germany with representatives of the Faculty of Forestry, University of Sarajevo; Faculty of Forestry, University of Banja Luka; Faculty of Forestry, University of Belgrade; Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Water Management and Forestry of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Federal Forestry Administration, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of Republic of Srpska; Directorate for Forestry, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of Republic of Serbia; Chamber of Forest Engineers of Serbia; Public Enterprise “Vojvodinasume”; Center for Teaching and Scientific Facilities of Forest Faculty of Belgrade in Goc, Forestry High School in Kraljevo, Serbia.
Assessing the institutional, organizational, and operational capacities of the forestry sector in the Western Balkans is important to explore opportunities for financial and expert support in initiating specific regional project activities. This collaboration marks a significant step toward enhancing the forestry sector, fostering new initiatives, and promoting sustainable development while strengthening the expertise and competencies of professionals in the field.
Activity is supported within the Project Agricultural Policy Dialogue Germany – South East Europe.
