UNHCR's engagement in BiH focuses on protecting the rights of forcibly displaced and stateless people, and empowering them to build a better future. UNHCR prioritizes sustainable responses by working with government institutions and partners to identify durable solutions and foster long-term impact for asylum-seekers and refugees. As UNHCR’s operational footprint in BiH gradually reduces, its focus shifts to strengthening the efficiency of the asylum system, alongside intensified advocacy efforts. HIGHLIGHTS Protection monitoring shows persisting high international protection needs In 2025, UNHCR and partners in BiH interviewed 430 people under regional protection monitoring: 71 per cent reported leaving their country due to generalized violence and insecurity, threats to their life, or discrimination. In this context, UNHCR and its partner Vaša prava BiH provide legal counselling on asylum and international protection in BiH. Strengthening legal capacities UNHCR and partners continued enhancing the capacities of legal practitioners and future lawyers in BiH. In January 2026, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between UNHCR, Vaša prava BiH, and three public free legal aid offices, to strengthen coordination in providing legal aid to forcibly displaced and stateless people.