During the war in Bosnia-Herzegovina (1992-1995), the city of Mostar was torn apart by the warring sides. As a result of this conflict - especially between Bosnian Croat and Muslim forces - the city is now both politically, economically and socially divided. Since the Dayton Peace Agreement (November 1995), Mostar has become one of the ultimate key areas where the success or failure of the post-war peace order is being decided.
Only now, five years after the war, are the former political adversaries slowly beginning to co-operate with each other on the local level. Nevertheless, destruction as well as a lack of political and economic reforms are still preventing any considerable progress. Social groups within Mostar are still divided, especially between Mostar's so-called Eastern and Western parts. Although the physical borders in Mostar were removed five years ago, the separation is still felt in all spheres of everyday social life -- down to the family-level. This situation is especially affecting the young people who grow up in an atmosphere of tension and division.
Young people play a major role in influencing the future of Mostar. It is still unclear whether they will continue the confrontations of the past or will strive to change the current political and social divisions. If Mostar is to have a better future, its major problems like unemployment, the widespread apathy and lack of motivation here have to be overcome. The current massive "brain drain" -- i.e. young people leaving Mostar for foreign countries -- has to be prevented by creating opportunities in Mostar. This is where "Mladi Most" comes in...