Euronatur Awards 2019 to the Brave Women of Kruščica (Bosnia-Herzegovina)

It is with great emotion that our President, R. Epple, who received the Euronatur 2018, handed it over to the admirable women of Kruscica! Photo copyright ERN France

On 10 October, a delegation of the “Brave Women of Kruščica” received the EuroNatur Award 2019 in recognition of the outstanding bravery and tenacity they showed in protecting their river. For over 500 days and nights, a group of women from the village of Kruščica in Bosnia and Herzegovina occupied a bridge over the Kruščica River, thereby preventing the construction of two hydropower plants. The women also defied adverse weather conditions and violent attempts to remove them. (See our last post about if (last january)

“I have huge admiration for the bravery and determination and for the perseverance and solidarity of this community. Their commitment to the protection of their natural resources serves as a model for other groups in the Balkans that are peacefully but resolutely fighting for the preservation of their rivers”, said EuroNatur President Christel Schroeder, explaining the choice of EuroNatur Award winner for 2019.

>>  More info ? Download the full speech 10/10/19 (english)