A Century of Commitment to Social Democracy: FES Celebrates 100 Years in Sarajevo

After a year of global celebrations, the jubilee reached Bosnia and Herzegovina — home to not one, but two FES offices: the country office in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the regional office “Dialogue Southeast Europe” (FES SEE), which connects partners from 12 countries across the region.

In her keynote address, Dr. Sabine Fandrych, Executive Director for International Cooperation, emphasized that this anniversary was more than a commemoration. It was a reaffirmation of FES’s mission to defend democracy and promote social justice at a time of growing polarization and insecurity.

“These are challenging times for democracy,” she noted. “The rule of law, freedom, and human rights are too often sacrificed for short-term political gain. Defending democracy every day can be exhausting, but it is always worth it.”

Dr. Fandrych underlined the Foundation’s long-standing engagement in the region: FES began its work in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1994, opened its Sarajevo office in 1996, followed by Banja Luka in 1998, and launched the regional Dialogue Southeast Europe project in 2015. Together, these offices continue to foster cooperation across borders and strengthen democratic values throughout Southeast Europe.

The anniversary celebration, held at the European House of Culture and National Minorities, gathered partners and friends from across the Western Balkans, including representatives of institutions, trade unions, civil society, academia, and international organizations. Guests were invited to visit a historical exhibition on the Foundation’s 100-year journey, leave messages in the guest book, and join in a celebration of the shared work for a just and inclusive future.

As Dr. Fandrych concluded:

“Tonight, we celebrate democracy — and above all, we celebrate you, our partners, allies, and friends in the shared vision of a fair, inclusive, and democratic Southeast Europe.”

For more atmosphere from FES100 in Sarajevo, check out our Instagram channel.