Advancing Science-Based Prevention: Insights from the EUPC Training in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Abstract

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, prevention efforts have traditionally relied on methods not informed by scientific evidence, limiting their effectiveness. This practitioner narrative explores the implementation of the European Prevention Curriculum (EUPC) in Bosnia and Herzegovina as part of a Special Issue on EUPC implementation practice and lessons learnt, examining the first outcomes of the training on decision, opinion, and policy makers (DOPs) and its role in fostering the adoption of evidence-based prevention strategies. Since 2022, ten EUPC training courses have been conducted in nine cities, engaging 178 key stakeholders from various sectors. The training aims to enhance participants' knowledge of science-based prevention principles and equip them with tools for informed decision-making in policy development and program implementation. To assess the outcome of EUPC training, we analyzed changes in policy discussions, strategic planning, and funding allocation for prevention programs. Key indicators include the proposal for the first national Prevention Strategy and the revision of public funding criteria to prioritize evidence-based initiatives. These findings demonstrate the training's role in shaping a more structured and effective prevention landscape. By systematically strengthening the capacity of key stakeholders, EUPC training serves as a catalyst for embedding science-based prevention within national frameworks. This paper highlights its potential to drive a paradigm shift toward sustainable, evidence-informed public health policies.