Youth are the foundation of every society, but also one of the most vulnerable groups when it comes to social challenges and health. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, where young people face numerous obstacles, special attention must be paid to creating policies that support their development and ensure a healthy and safe life. Social care for youth and youth health not only improves the quality of life of individuals, but also contributes to the strengthening of society as a whole.
Challenges of social care for young people
According to the “Analysis of the Position and Needs of Youth in BiH”, many young people face inadequate access to health services and a lack of opportunities for quality social activities. In rural areas, inequality in the availability of services is particularly pronounced, while in urban areas, young people are often not sufficiently informed about the resources available to them. The problems of social care for youth and youth employability are closely linked, so it is interesting to note that in 2022, about 40% of employed young people had a salary lower than the average. As a result, they cannot adequately contribute to household budgets, they do not have housing, and a large number of them are considering leaving BiH. As these are some of the conditions for starting a family, it is not surprising that BiH is recording a trend of declining birth rates, and with the brain drain, it is becoming a country of the elderly. Therefore, it is clear that the previous efforts of institutions when it comes to social care for young people have not been sufficient, and that it is necessary to develop policies and social protection measures aimed at young people as a specific population group.
One of the proposals for improving the position of young people is the introduction of the concept of a minimum social care for young people. This concept implies the mandatory provision of basic services and resources for every young person, regardless of their socio-economic situation. This includes the availability of free health services, basic education on health and mental well-being, and support in the form of counseling and youth centers in local communities.
In practice, a minimum social care would ensure that all young people have the basic conditions for a healthy and stable life. In addition to reducing socio-economic disparities, this approach would help create equal opportunities for personal development. Although implementation would require initial investments, the long-term benefits would outweigh the costs by reducing medical costs, increasing youth employability and improving social cohesion. Providing such support not only reduces poverty among young people, but also ensures more stable conditions for their development and integration into society.
Health care and prevention
A significant number of young people are not covered by health insurance, which makes them particularly vulnerable to health risks.
Mental health is another area that requires urgent intervention. Youth in BiH are vulnerable to stress, anxiety and depression due to socio-economic pressures, lack of opportunities and an uncertain future.
Prevention is key to the health of young people and should be the basis of health policies aimed at this population. Systematic examinations and regular health checks enable early detection of health problems, while reproductive health education helps young people make informed decisions about their bodies and health. Also, the promotion of mental health through educational workshops, group therapy and counseling can significantly reduce the incidence of mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety, which are on the rise among young people.
Unfortunately, the current health system often does not meet the needs of young people, and many of them do not have access to basic preventive services. Investments in health infrastructure need to be increased and free or subsidized health check-ups for young people should be made available. Data indicate that only a small number of young people use the services of health counseling centers and health promotion programs, which shows that informing and promoting these services should be a priority.
Special focus should be placed on preventing unhealthy lifestyles, including the consumption of cigarettes, alcohol and hookah, the use of which is increasing among young people. Through media campaigns, school programs and community activities, it is necessary to promote healthy habits, such as playing sports, eating properly and avoiding risky behaviors. Introducing additional programs that encourage healthy lifestyles can contribute not only to individual health, but also to the overall progress of society.
For these measures to be successfully implemented, local communities play a key role. The public call for applications for the assessment of local government units and the acquisition of the “Youth-Friendly Community ” certificate is an opportunity for all communities to demonstrate their commitment to youth. Apply and become part of an initiative that builds a better future for our youth!
Source: mladi.org
