Switzerland is the largest bilateral donor in healthcare in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with over 20 years of successful cooperation with the entity ministries of health and the government of the Brčko district. The support focuses on strengthening primary healthcare, improving the cadre of nurses and technicians, preventing noncommunicable diseases, and promoting healthy lifestyles. Projects include care for the elderly, healthcare sector reforms, and continuous education of medical staff. Switzerland shares its knowledge and experience, including models of community nursing and home care, aiming to align with European standards and support BiH’s European integration path.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning sources emphasize the humanitarian and social development aspects of Swiss support, highlighting the importance of investing in healthcare as a public good and focusing on prevention, community care, and the empowerment of healthcare workers. They stress the role of international cooperation in improving healthcare access and quality for all citizens.
Center: Center-leaning sources report on the Swiss support in a balanced manner, focusing on the practical benefits of the projects such as strengthening primary healthcare, improving nursing education, and aligning with European standards. They highlight the cooperation between BiH and Switzerland as a positive example of international partnership and reform progress.
Right: Right-leaning sources tend to emphasize the strategic and political importance of Swiss support, framing it as part of BiH’s European integration process and the alignment with EU standards. They may also highlight the role of government officials and the importance of reforms in healthcare as a step towards modernization and economic development.
