Social Work Center of BPK Goražde Praises the “Forgotten Children of War”Association for Its Positive Impact on Society

Representatives from the “Forgotten Children of War” Association in Sarajevo, Ajna
Jusić and Merjem Muhadžić, visited the Public Institution Social Work Center of BPK
Goražde today, where they met with director Edisa Ahmetspahić Hendo. The meeting
focused on the framework and process for implementing and recognizing the rights of
children born from wartime sexual violence, in line with the Federal Law on the
Protection of Civil War Victims, passed on July 31, 2023.

Acknowledging the complexity of the issue, the stigma and prejudice often faced by
affected individuals, and the socio-psychological challenges of this legal category,
both sides agreed that a systematic approach is essential for enforcing and
implementing the law.

Social Work Centers, as the initial point of contact for recognizing the rights and
status of special civil war victims, play a crucial role in this process, and also raising
awareness among professionals in practice and within civil society is vital.
Strengthening collaboration between the non-governmental sector, social work
centers, and other relevant institutions is necessary to address potential amendments
to the legal framework.

“We are pleased to begin this collaboration, which will allow us to offer the most
appropriate support to those who have waited nearly 30 years for recognition,
visibility, and systemic assistance. Our Cantonal Social Work Center in Goražde will
support the ‘Forgotten Children of War’ Association in gathering information for the
development of a manual for individuals covered under this legal category, as
specified in the law,” stated the Center.

Additionally, recognizing the complexity of the issue, the Center encourages
individuals who are unsure or wish to begin the process of securing their rights to
contact the Family Counseling Center at the Social Work Center BPK Goražde,
where they can receive psychosocial support throughout the entire process, in full
confidentiality and privacy.

It was also agreed that the Social Work Center of BPK Goražde and the “Forgotten
Children of War” Association will sign a memorandum of cooperation to better
support those in need.

The ‘Forgotten Children of War’ Association is also available to provide information
and personal support to anyone who feels they need additional assistance to claim
their rights.

“We fully support and appreciate the work of this Association, which is making a
meaningful impact and driving positive change in our society, alongside all relevant
stakeholders,” concluded the Goražde Social Work Center.