The health and well-being of young people represent the foundation of sustainable development in every community, while their condition reflects overall social resilience, the quality of institutions, and the level of social cohesion. In Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), this issue is gaining increasing importance due to complex challenges that shape the everyday lives of young people—from the socio-economic consequences of transition and the post-war period, through digitalization and the pervasive influence of social media, to global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of mental health disorders. Although BiH inherited a health and social protection system from the former Yugoslavia, prolonged decentralization, institutional fragmentation, and uneven development have led to significant disparities in the availability and quality of health services for youth across the country.

Despite the fact that a substantial share of GDP is allocated to healthcare, the impact of such investments often remains limited due to overlapping jurisdictions, weak coordination mechanisms, and the absence of strategic planning at the state level. Many vulnerable groups of young people, including the unemployed, youth in rural areas, LGBTIQ+ individuals, and young people with disabilities, frequently remain outside the focus of the health system. Mental health, physical inactivity, the use of psychoactive substances, the rise of peer violence, and poor nutrition are just some of the alarming trends demanding an urgent, coordinated, and multisectoral response. Data from 2024 and 2025, although unfortunately scarce, further confirm the urgency of action, indicating an increase in symptoms of depression and anxiety among young people, alongside insufficient access to community-based support.

Although there have been positive developments—such as mental health reform, the introduction of youth strategies at entity and local levels, the strengthening of the role of the non-governmental sector, and EU4Health pilot programs—systemic empowerment of healthcare institutions, their adaptation to youth, and sustainable financing of services tailored to their real needs remain lacking. Schools, sports associations, and youth organizations often operate in isolation and without strategic support. Health education remains inconsistent and rarely institutionalized.

In this context, this document provides an overview of the health and well-being of young people in BiH, analyzing existing policies, challenges, and practices, while also identifying opportunities for improving the system. The focus is placed on key areas, ranging from mental health and health insurance, through physical activity and nutrition, to the institutional adaptation of healthcare facilities to youth. By presenting current debates, strategies, and recommendations, the aim is to open space for systemic change that involves young people not only as beneficiaries but also as active participants in shaping health and social policies.