The Parliament of the Federation of BiH Adopts the Spatial Data Infrastructure Strategy of FBiH for the Period 2023 – 2027

The Parliament of the Federation of BiH Adopts the Spatial Data Infrastructure Strategy of FBiH for the Period 2023 – 2027

After the Government of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina adopted the Spatial Data Infrastructure Strategy of the Federation of BiH (SDI FBiH) for the period 2023 – 2027 at a session held on October 4, 2023, both chambers of the Parliament of the Federation of BiH passed a decision formally confirming and adopting this strategic document.

The SDI FBiH Strategy 2023 – 2027 is a key multi-sectoral document that contributes to improving the availability, interoperability, and quality of spatial data. Its primary objectives include defining priority activities and projects that will enable more efficient use of spatial data in public administration, the private sector, and the academic community, facilitate digital transformation, and ensure compliance with EU directive requirements.

The process of drafting the Strategy began on July 14, 2022, with the Decision of the Government of FBiH No. V:1077/2022. The leading institutions responsible for its development are the Federal Administration for Geodetic and Real Property Affairs and the SDI FBiH Council, in accordance with the Law on the Spatial Data Infrastructure of FBiH. The drafting process involved public authorities responsible for spatial data, as well as relevant socio-economic partners.

The implementation of the Strategy will be carried out through three-year and annual work plans, the Framework Budget Document, and the FBiH budget, as well as through the Public Investment Program. Its realization will enable better management of spatial data, increased accessibility, and more efficient use in decision-making, economic development, and environmental protection.

Upon entering into force, the Spatial Data Infrastructure Strategy of the Federation of BiH 2023 – 2027 becomes the key framework for the coordinated development of spatial data in the Federation of BiH, thereby contributing to strengthening institutional capacities, more efficient resource management, and enhancing regional and international cooperation in the field of geoinformatics.

The strategy document can be downloaded from the official website of the Spatial Data Infrastructure of FBiH – www.ippfbih.gov.ba.

Invitation to SDI stakeholders of the Federation of BH to participate in the Public Consultation as Part of the GreenData4All Initiative

Invitation to SDI stakeholders of the Federation of BH to participate in the Public Consultation as Part of the GreenData4All Initiative

The European Commission invites you to participate in the public consultation as part of the GreenData4All initiative from February 5 to April 30, 2025. This initiative is essential for supporting Europe’s green and digital transformation by making environmental data more accessible, available, and reusable. The Commission aims to gather stakeholders’ opinions on the issues identified in the evaluation of the INSPIRE Directive, the challenges of the rapidly evolving European data landscape, and possible approaches to addressing these issues.

The consultation seeks feedback from all interested parties, including citizens, environmental and spatial data experts, organizations from various sectors (environment, geospatial data, marine, agriculture, utilities, smart cities, mobility, energy), businesses, non-governmental organizations, academia, and international partners.

The consultation is open until April 30, 2025, and contributions can be submitted in all 24 official EU languages. You can contribute to this consultation by completing the online questionnaire: Link to the questionnaire. The questionnaires are available in some or all official EU languages. You can submit your responses in any official EU language. For transparency purposes, organizations and companies participating in the public consultation are required to register in the EU Transparency Register.

By participating, you will help ensure that the updated rules on environmental data meet the needs of all users, from policymakers and businesses to the general public. By joining this initiative, you will contribute to shaping a more sustainable and digitally advanced Europe.

About the GreenData4All Initiative

The GreenData4All initiative addresses the growing need for better sharing of environmental data. This is essential for developing effective policies that protect our environment and support a strong data economy. By making environmental data more accessible, GreenData4All aims to support evidence-based decision making and empower European businesses and startups to create more innovative services.

Initiative objectives:

  • Enhance Data Sharing: Contribute to a coherent ecosystem for environmental data sharing, making the existing legal framework for sharing geospatial data (INSPIRE Directive) future-proof and aligned with other European data sharing legislation (Open Data Directive, Data Governance Act).
  • Support Environmental Policy: Ensure that environmental data is easily accessible and meets the needs of end-users, facilitating better policy implementation and decision-making.
  • Promote Digital Transformation: Contribute to making environmental data more accessible and reusable for all users, thereby boosting competitiveness and innovation across the EU.

Forty-fifth session of the SDI Council of FBiH held

Forty-fifth session of the SDI Council of FBiH held

The forty-fifth session of the Spatial Data Infrastructure of the Federation of BiH Council (SDI FBiH Council) was held in the premises of the Federal Administration for Geodetic and Real Property Affairs on February 18, 2025.

At the session, the Council has discussed:

  1. Determining the Agenda of the 45th session of the SDI FBiH Council;
  2. Approval of the Minutes from the previous 44th session of the SDI FBiH Council;
  3. Information on the adoption of the Report on the establishment, maintenance and development of the SDI FBiH for 2024;
  4. Information and proposal of the Work Plan for the establishment, maintenance and development of the SDI FBiH for the Year 2025;
  5. Adoption of the Communication Plan;
  6. Adoption of the Framework Study for Spatial Data Licensing;
  7. Information on the approval of the implementation of the GeoConnect project;
  8. Other.

The Federal Administration for Geodetic and Real Property Affairs, as the Coordinating body of the SDI FBiH, prepared and submitted to the members of the Council the Work Plan for the establishment, maintenance and development of the SDI FBiH for the Year 2025 for consideration and final adoption. The proposed Work Plan, which includes the Education Plan for 2025, was unanimously adopted by the SDI Council. At this session, the Council adopted the Communication Plan and the Framework Study for Spatial Data Licensing, which will be the basis for further action in SDI.

In accordance with the SDI Strategy for the period 2023-2027 and the Action plan for 2025, activities will continue in terms of increasing the number of stakeholders and available sources in order to raise the level of availability and interoperability of spatial data. Continuous work will be carried out on the implementation of the Law on SDI and other regulations, as well as the creation of a formal framework that will be the subject of future activities in the field of the SDI FBiH. Also, during the next period, the focus will be on improving existing technological frameworks, enhancing the development of network services based on existing spatial data sets, and promoting the importance of SDI through the implementation of a communication plan. During 2025, it was planned at least 4 sessions to accompany these activities.

Call for Participation in FOSS4G Europe 2025 – Mostar

Call for Participation in FOSS4G Europe 2025 – Mostar

The Federal Administration for Geodetic and Real Property Affairs (FGA), as the conference sponsor, invites the stakeholders of the Spatial Data Infrastructure of the Federation of BiH (SDI FBiH) to participate in FOSS4G Europe 2025, the leading European conference on open geospatial technologies, which will be held in Mostar from July 1 to July 5, 2025. 

This event represents a unique opportunity for institutions and organizations involved in the development of SDI FBiH to showcase their projects, exchange experiences, and contribute to the advancement of geospatial data utilization at both the national and international levels. 

We invite you to submit presentations, lectures, and papers and to showcase initiatives that contribute to the development of spatial technologies, open data, and spatial analysis, with a particular focus on their application within SDI FBiH. 

The deadline for presentation submissions is the end of this week, so we encourage you not to miss this opportunity to promote your activities and achievements! 

🔗 More information on the call for presentations:
https://2025.europe.foss4g.org/call-for-proposals/general-program/

🔗 Presentation submission:
https://talks.osgeo.org/foss4g-europe-2025/cfp

Participation in the conference will enable you to network with international experts, exchange knowledge, and explore innovative solutions in geospatial data applications. 

We look forward to your participation and contribution to strengthening SDI FBiH through FOSS4G Europe 2025!

GeoConnect Grant Project Approved for the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina

GeoConnect Grant Project Approved for the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina

The Federal Administration for Geodetic and Real Property Affairs is pleased to announce the approval of the GeoConnect project: Connecting Geoinformatics Expertise for Responsible and Transparent Governance.

This significant project, funded by the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands through the Matra Government to Government (Matra G2G) program, aims to strengthen the Spatial Data Infrastructure of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (SDI FBiH – http://www.ippfbih.gov.ba) in line with European and international standards. The total project budget is €1.1 million, with an implementation period of four years (2025–2029).

GeoConnect is the result of a long-standing collaboration between the Federal Administration for Geodetic and Real Property Affairs and leading European institutions in the field of geospatial data. The project implementation will be led by Kadaster International (the Netherlands’ Cadastre, Land Registry and Mapping Agency) and the Faculty of Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation (ITC) at the University of Twente, in cooperation with the Faculty of Civil Engineering at the University of Sarajevo and University of Mostar, as well as the Belgian Catholic University KU Leuven.

Project objectives:

  • Enhancing the capacity of the coordinating body and SDI entities in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina for spatial data management through specialized training and mentorship programs.
  • Developing standardized and interoperable geospatial data, aligned with the European Union’s INSPIRE Directive.
  • Raising awareness about the importance of spatial data in public resource management, sustainable development, and data-driven decision-making.

The four-year project will include a series of technical workshops, study visits, educational programs, and public awareness campaigns.

As the primary beneficiary and project coordinator within the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Federal Administration for Geodetic and Real Property Affairs emphasizes the importance of this initiative in strengthening responsible governance and preparing Bosnia and Herzegovina for future EU membership.

We extend our gratitude to all partners for their trust and look forward to the successful joint implementation of this strategic project.

Promotional and Educational Video Materials of IPP FBiH

Promotional and Educational Video Materials of IPP FBiH

In accordance with the Procurement Plan and the Work Plan for the establishment, maintenance, and development of the Spatial Data Infrastructure of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (IPP FBiH) for 2024, the Federal Administration for Geodetic and Property Affairs has carried out a public procurement procedure for the services of presenting and promoting the effects and importance of IPP FBiH.

The main goal of this activity was to create promotional and educational-informative materials to bring IPP FBiH closer to end users. The focus was on increasing the understanding of the functionalities and importance of IPP, whether for citizens or entities using IPP FBiH applications for entering and exchanging spatial data.

As part of this initiative, one promotional video and four educational video clips were created, which provide detailed explanations of data entry into registers, metadata catalog, data sharing processes, and spatial data harmonization in accordance with the INSPIRE directive. Additionally, five short video clips in Reels format were created, creatively and engagingly communicating key aspects of IPP FBiH.

All video materials are available on the IPP FBiH website and YouTube channel, where they will serve as a valuable resource for education and promotion at future events.

Visit our YouTube channel and watch the videos to learn more about the significance and benefits of IPP FBiH!

Forty-fourth session of the SDI Council of FBiH held

Forty-fourth session of the SDI Council of FBiH held

On December 18, 2024, the forty-fourth session of the SDI FBiH Council was held in the premises of the Federal Administration for Geodetic and Property Affairs. The session was attended by members of the Council in accordance with the Decision of the Government of the Federation of BiH.

The following agenda was discussed at the Council session:

  1. Approval of the agenda for the 44th session of the SDI Council of FBiH;
  2. Adoption of the minutes from the previous 43rd session of the SDI Council of FBiH;
  3. Adoption of the Decision related to the definition and detailed description of Spatial Data themes of SDI Federation BiH;
  4. Information on the development of promotional and educational video materials of SDI FBiH;
  5. Information on draft of the Framework Study for spatial data licensing of SDI FBiH;
  6. Information on draft of the Communication Plan;
  7. Information on the appointment of new members of the Working Group for Technical Standards and the proposal for a Decision on amending and supplementing the decision;
  8. Adoption of the Report on the establishment, maintenance and development of SDI FBiH for the Year 2024;
  9. Information on the status of the Regulation on the content and holders of the unified information system, the methodology of data collection and processing, and the unique forms on which records are kept;
  10. Other.

At the 44th session, the Council approved the Decision on establishing the definitions and detailed description of spatial data themes of the SDI of Federation BiH, i.e. the implementation rule related to the application of spatial data themes in the territory of the Federation of BiH.

The SDI FBiH Council regularly monitored the implementation of planned activities, carried out a comprehensive assessment of the implementation on an annual basis and proposed possible changes and additions to the annual work plan. The Federal Administration for Geodetic and Real Property Legal Affairs, as the Coordinating Body of the SDI FBiH, prepared and submitted the Work Report for the Year 2024 to the members of the Council for consideration. At the 44th session, the proposed Report was adopted for submission to the Government of the Federation of BiH for acceptance.

Final Event of the SPATIAL II Project Held in Belgrade

Final Event of the SPATIAL II Project Held in Belgrade

From December 4 to 6, 2024, the final event of the regional SPATIAL II project, focused on the modernization of geodetic processes and spatial data management in the Western Balkans, was held in Belgrade. The host of this important gathering was the Republic Geodetic Authority of Serbia (RGA), and the event brought together representatives from key geodetic institutions in the region, including the Federal Administration for Geodetic and Real Property Affairs (FGA), as well as delegations from Montenegro, Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia.

Launched in 2020 with financial support from the Kingdom of the Netherlands, SPATIAL II aimed to strengthen the capacities of national geodetic agencies for the collection, analysis, and exchange of spatial data. The project’s key partner was Kadaster, the national land administration agency of the Netherlands.

The project lasted four years, during which regional institutions received continuous support to enhance digital registers, standardize procedures, and increase the interoperability of their systems. Particular emphasis was placed on the application of new technologies.

During the closing event, participants presented the results of their work and exchanged experiences gained during the project’s implementation. The following achievements were particularly highlighted:

  • Development of modern digital geodetic products such as digital terrain models and orthophoto imagery.
  • Enhancement of infrastructure for data exchange between countries in the region.
  • Introduction of innovative technologies for spatial data management, with a special focus on updating land registers.

Discussions also addressed the challenges faced in the digitization process, including legal and technical barriers, and emphasized the need for continued regional cooperation and sustainable spatial resource management.

SPATIAL II has made a significant impact on advancing geodetic practices in the Western Balkans, laying the groundwork for future projects focused on digitization and spatial modernization. Participants highlighted the importance of continuing collaboration, particularly in the context of harmonization with European Union standards.

Capacity building regarding Spatial Data Infrastructure of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Capacity building regarding Spatial Data Infrastructure of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Following the expressed interest from SDI stakeholders, the Federal Administration for Geodetic and Property Affairs during November continued building capacity in the field of spatial data infrastructure of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (SDI FBiH). The Federal Administration for Geodetic and Property Legal Affairs and in budget funds ensured Basic and Advanced training. The company Gauss d.o.o. Tuzla was selected as a service provider which has rich experience in capacity building in the field of SDI and spatial data in general. The main goal is to acquire competences in the field of spatial data management, their preparation, presentation and sharing, as well as the acquisition of basic knowledge when it comes to spatial data infrastructure.

The institutions that attended training organized by FGA are: Public Institution for Protected Natural Areas of Sarajevo Canton, Ministry of Construction and Spatial Planning of Herzegovina-Neretva Canton, Federal Institute for Agriculture Sarajevo, Administration for Geodetic and Property Legal Affairs of Central Bosnia Canton, Institute for Urban Planning, spatial planning and protection of the cultural and historical heritage of Central Bosnia Canton.

At the end of each held training, an evaluation of the acquired knowledge was carried out, within which the attendees could present their observations during the training, including the content of the training, methodology and everything else. By reviewing the completed evaluation forms of the trainings, it can be concluded that the training was successfully conducted and that the set goal was met.

The Federal Administration for Geodetic and Real Property Affairs will continue to invest in the development and training of its employees as well as employees of other institutions in order to ensure a better use of Spatial Data in the future.

Education on the topic of Spatial Data Infrastructure held in Travnik

Education on the topic of Spatial Data Infrastructure held in Travnik

The education on the topic of Spatial Data Infrastructure of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina was held at the IUT Hotel in Travnik, on November 5, 2024. The education was organized in cooperation with the FBiH Civil Service Agency, within the framework of the program for local self-government units. In addition to representatives of local self-government units, representatives of Ministries and Institutes from Central Bosnia and Zenica-Doboj cantons also attended the training.

Educators in front of the Federal Administration for Geodetic and Real Property Affairs, Mr. Jasmin Ćatić and Mrs. Jelena Zelić, had the opportunity to hold an introductory education in the field of Spatial Data Infrastructure in the FBiH. The education is divided into 3 modules; Introduction and basic principles of the SDI, Legislative and strategic framework, SDI in practice (examples, solutions and tools).

The goals of the education were:

  • Familiarize participants with basic concepts and definitions of the Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI)
  • Explain the key aspects of the SDI Law, implementing rules and the INSPIRE directive
  • Provide insight into legal obligations
  • Show the current status of SDI FBiH
  • Show practical applications and benefits of the SDI for the public sector and society.

The Federal Administration for Geodetic and Real Property Affairs, as the coordinating body of the SDI FBiH, hereby thanks the FBiH Civil Service Agency for the recognized importance of organizing this education, which created the prerequisites for continued cooperation in the field of capacity building and spreading awareness about the Spatial Data Infrastructure in FBiH.

Federal Administration for Geodetic and Real Property Affairs

Working hours: 08:00 - 16:00
Contact phone: 033/712-616
E-mail: ipp.fbih@fgu.com.ba

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