Balkans face rising poverty and waste management challenges

Bosnia and Herzegovina is facing a significant rise in poverty and social exclusion. The Red Cross has warned that the situation is becoming ‘unbearable’ due to the rising cost of living and fuel, with more citizens daily requesting food, hygiene products, and school supplies. Officials note that the lack of a state strategy to address these economic pressures is exacerbating the crisis.

Simultaneously, regional authorities are grappling with waste management and environmental issues. In Mostar, political tensions surround the management of public utilities and waste disposal costs following landfill fires. In Croatia, local councils in Split and Koprivnica are addressing controversies regarding waste management equipment, procurement irregularities, and the need for long-term infrastructure like composting plants and waste treatment centers.