New digital platform transforms tourism in Bosnia - EXCLUSIVE
CE Report presents an exclusive interview conducted via email with the Federal Ministry of Environment and Tourism of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, discussing the launch and impact of the digital tourist registration platform “prijava.ba” in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
What are the main objectives of the “prijava.ba” system and how does it improve the registration process for tourists and accommodation providers?
The main objective of the “prijava.ba” system is to simplify and digitalize tourist registration across the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The platform allows accommodation providers to register guests electronically in real time, replacing manual, paper-based procedures. This improves administrative efficiency, ensures reliable data for all relevant institutions, and enables better planning and development of sustainable tourism.
Digitalization through “prijava.ba” is a key step in modernizing the tourism sector, strengthening regional cooperation, and supporting the green and digital transition in line with European standards. As Federal Minister Nasiha Pozder highlighted, the system ensures accessibility of trustworthy data for planning, monitoring, and promoting sustainable tourism.
How many accommodation facilities have already been integrated into the platform, and what is the current level of adoption across cantons?
The system is currently operational in six cantons, while the remaining cantons are in the process of integration. Experiences from the cantons show that hotels, guest houses, and private accommodations are already integrating and this approach helps curb the grey economy, which is present in Bosnia and Herzegovina and not only in the tourism sector. Adoption is steadily increasing as cantonal authorities and tourism boards receive training and support. The system has been presented to all cantonal representatives, highlighting clear benefits for service providers and tourism planning institutions.
What role did GIZ partners play in the development and implementation of the system?
GIZ played a crucial role in developing and implementing “prijava.ba” through the EU4PSD project, co-financed by the European Union (EU) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) within the broader SEDEP program. GIZ provided co-financing, assistance, capacity building, and guidance to align the platform with EU standards for digital public services and data protection. The partnership was formalized through a cooperation agreement signed by Federal Minister Nasiha Pozder and GIZ Program Manager Jens Elsner.
Are there plans to expand or connect “prijava.ba” with other tourism-related databases or regional digital systems in the Western Balkans?
Yes. The Ministry plans to further enhance “prijava.ba” by connecting it with other tourism-related databases and exploring interoperability with regional digital tourism systems within the Western Balkans. This integration will improve inter-institutional coordination, support data-driven tourism planning, and strengthen promotional activities at both the Federation and national level.
Additionally, the Ministry is focusing on sustainability, including green certification for tourism operators and accommodation facilities, which will boost competitiveness and align the sector with European sustainability standards.
Republika Srpska is just at the beginning of establishing a digitalized system for guest registration, and project teams will continue working to ensure data complementarity in the future. Additionally, the model closely follows the very successful Croatian system, eVisitor, which operates extremely well given the importance of tourism for Croatia’s economy.
How does the Ministry plan to ensure data protection and cybersecurity within the platform?
Data protection and cybersecurity are one of top priorities. The system fully complies with the Law on Personal Data Protection of Bosnia and Herzegovina and international best practices. All data transmissions are encrypted, access is strictly controlled, and regular audits are conducted to ensure system integrity and protect user privacy.
This 36-month project represents a major step in modernizing and strengthening the tourism sector in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, creating new opportunities for local businesses, increasing destination attractiveness, and promoting sustainable economic development.
Photo: Wikipedia
This interview was prepared by Julian Müller
