Sarajevo in the focus of the world – First International Security Conference in the world’s best travel destination 2025
Sarajevo – a city with history, diversity and now international recognition. Under the leadership of the IPA President of Sarajevo, Muamer Klino, an important international security conference was recently held, which not only brought together experts from various countries, but also focused on the tourism potential of the Bosnian capital.
At a time when travelers worldwide are seeking authenticity and security in equal measure, Sarajevo is coming into focus as a city with both qualities. The capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina recently hosted a high-level conference entitled
“Safety of historic cities – Sarajevo as the best tourist destination for 2025”,
organized by the International Police Association (IPA) Sarajevo under the leadership of its president Muamer Klino.
Security experts, government representatives, scientists and technology companies from all over Europe came together to discuss the interplay between urban security and tourism development. The occasion was prominent: Sarajevo was voted the world’s best travel destination in 2025 by the readers of National Geographic Travel magazine. According to Klino, who has held the office of President since 2019, this international accolade is “not only an honor, but also an obligation to continue investing in the city’s safety and hospitality”.
“Safety is a shared responsibility”
Muamer Klino, himself a former police officer and committed security strategist, emphasized in his opening speech: “Security is the foundation for sustainable tourism development. Sarajevo has shown that it is not only rich in history and culture, but also a safe place for guests from all over the world. When I started this project a few months ago, my wish was for us to come together here – to learn from each other and to network.”
Massive investment in the police
Admir Katica, representative of the Ministry of Interior of the Sarajevo Canton (MUP KS), presented impressive figures: Around 55 million BAM has been invested in police, equipment and infrastructure over the past five years. By 2027, 500 new police officers are to be recruited.
Vedran Ključanin from the security company SHOT reported: “We used to sell objects – today we sell knowledge.” SHOT recently celebrated the reintroduction of a police helicopter – the first in over 50 years – as well as new uniforms and vehicle designs for modern policing.
Technology against new threats
The conference also showed how modern technologies strengthen urban security.
Stephan Kraschansky from the German company AARONIA AG presented the AARTOS RF system – a mobile solution for drone detection and defense:
“Drones are available for little money. You can build an attack drone for as little as 700 euros. Our systems detect and stop them specifically and efficiently.”
Teltonika Telematics from Lithuania, market leader for telematics solutions, also presented modern safety and fleet management technologies – including solutions for e-mobility.
Sarajevo: safe, but underestimated
Prof. Dr. Jasmin Ahić from the University of Criminology and Security Studies criticized the persistently one-sided portrayal of Sarajevo abroad:
“People on the internet are still asking: Is Sarajevo safe? The answer has long been yes. But a negative headline remains, while a good story has to be repeated a hundred times.”
Haris Fazlagić, the city’s tourism officer, added:
“Sarajevo is one of the safest cities in the world and is now connected worldwide with over 40 direct flights. We are open to the world – and the world is beginning to discover us.”
A particularly personal testimony to Sarajevo’s transformation came from Ozan Bagatirlar, Director of Cybercrime at the Metropolitan Police in London, United Kingdom: “I first visited Sarajevo 45 years ago as a child. The only reason I returned in January was because of the article in National Geographic.” His return underlines the emotional attachment many people have to this city – and the new attention Sarajevo is receiving internationally.
From Ottoman night watch to cybersecurity
Alija Jašarević from the private security agency GAMA referred to the historical continuity of protection services in Sarajevo – such as the “Pasvandžija”, night watchmen during the Ottoman Empire.
But today’s challenges are more modern: a shortage of skilled workers, rural exodus and language barriers for new personnel.
Nebojsa Stankić from Zebra Systems added the digital perspective:
“Today, our data is what buildings used to be. Firewalls are the modern city watchmen.”
Trust – the invisible key to security
Mirza Smajić, Full Professor at the Faculty of Political Science at the University of Sarajevo, reminded the audience that Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the safest countries in Europe according to international statistics, for example according to the German Federal Foreign Office.
“We often expect others to protect us. But it starts with ourselves – with mutual trust. Because safety is an important factor in developing tourism.”
About the IPA
With over 372,000 members in more than 100 countries, the International Police Association (IPA) is the world’s largest police association.
It promotes international cooperation, friendship and cultural exchange among police officers – regardless of rank, gender, religion or political conviction. With its commitment, IPA Sarajevo is an example of the combination of local responsibility and international solidarity. It combines this with humanitarian work in the region and worldwide.
Sarajevo is ready!
The security conference was more than just a technical exchange – it was a strong signal to the world and sent a clear message: Sarajevo is safe. Sarajevo is open. Sarajevo is ready for the world – and the world seems to be ready for Sarajevo. True to the motto of the International Police Association in Esperanto: “Servo per Amikeco” – service through friendship!
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