Project poster (PDF)

Peace

Bosnia

Recovering from war

The Yugoslav wars, a series of violent conflicts in the 1990s, were the bloodiest conflicts on European soil since the end of World War II. Ten years after the violence, former soldiers and those who witnessed the fighting are still coping with trauma. Families and communities are also struggling with hostilities that remain from the war.

Adnan Hasanbegovic is a former soldier helping others understand how fear and hate lead to war. Seven years ago he began working with the Sarajevo-based Center for Nonviolent Action where he decided to involve ex-soldiers in educational programs that improve inter-ethnic relationships and promote nonviolent ways to deal with conflict.

In partnership with MCC, the Center for Nonviolent Action has developed a training program that creates a trusting atmosphere where people can talk about sensitive issues. MCC staff assisted in developing the training curriculum. One of the trainings helps ex-combatants, journalists and workers from nongovernmental organizations deal with trauma by sharing about their experiences and problems.

If contributions to a project exceed the amount needed, MCC will use the donations to support similar projects.