The construction of the Centre for Cultural and Creative Industries Development (CCID) in Banja Luka officially began on 22 July 2026 with the signing of the works contract and the presentation of the future centre's design, marking a milestone in the EU-funded EU4Culture project implemented by UNESCO. The EU has provided over €1.5 million for the centre, which is part of a larger €10.7 million EU4Culture project that includes an EU contribution of €8.5 million and €295,000 from UNESCO.
Head of EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina and EU Special Representative, Ambassador Luigi Soreca, said at the event that culture connects people, fosters creativity and innovation, and contributes to inclusive communities. He noted that the centre will provide a dedicated space for young people, artists and creative professionals to develop skills, exchange ideas, and connect with partners across Europe. Soreca emphasised that the EU remains the most loyal partner and largest investor in the country.
Banja Luka Mayor Draško Stanivuković said the centre will decentralise activities across the city, establishing several hubs in neighbourhoods including Lazarevo, Starčevica and Lauš. He described it as the first centre of its kind in Republika Srpska and Bosnia and Herzegovina, providing artists with free access to film and music studios. The mayor stated that a modern 4,000-square-metre centre will be built within 18 months on the site of a rundown market area in Lazarevo, with minimal financial contribution from the city.
Sinisa Sesum, Head of UNESCO Office in Bosnia and Herzegovina, said UNESCO is proud to be part of the project, noting that the centre directly contributes to enhancing Banja Luka's position as a UNESCO Creative City of Music.
Through EU4Culture, the EU is also providing €900,000 to support the Museum of Contemporary Art of Republika Srpska, and supporting initiatives in Sarajevo and Mostar aimed at creating new opportunities for artists, cultural professionals and young people across the country. The project reflects the EU's long-term partnership with Bosnia and Herzegovina, supporting projects that unlock local potential and create spaces where ideas and talent can grow.
The centre is expected to have a positive impact on local cultural and creative industries, providing infrastructure and free studio access for artists. The investment supports economic development through the creative sector's contribution to GDP, as noted by the mayor. The project also strengthens EU visibility and soft power in Bosnia and Herzegovina, reinforcing the EU's role as a major investor and partner in the country.