TUZLA, September 29 (FENA) – At the third Media Innovation and Trends (M.I.T.) conference, held today in Tuzla on the topic 'Film Production as a Tool for the Development of BiH”, participants highlighted that film, though first and foremost an art form, is also a way of documenting reality and a platform for boosting Bosnia and Herzegovina's international visibility.
Deputy Director of the Federal News Agency (FENA), Ilija Musa, in his opening address at the conference, stated that the participants had gathered today to explore new directions for media development and create space for dialogue, ideas, and initiatives that strengthen cultural diplomacy and position BiH as a country capable of shaping international media trends.
He noted that this conference is not only a gathering of experts in the fields of media, film, journalism, theater, and the television industry.
''It is part of a broader mission to strengthen the role of media in developing an informed and culturally rich society,'' he emphasized.
Speaking about the importance of film, he highlighted that film, as a powerful tool of soft power in contemporary diplomacy, has for decades promoted BiH through the presentation of its landscapes, cultural diversity, and social particularities. On these very foundations, he added, 'we can build a better future for generations to come'.
''In doing so, we will provide them with opportunities to attract investors, tourists, and all those individuals and organizations that can contribute to the development of our country,'' Musa said.
The Deputy Director of FENA also pointed out that this year’s conference theme, film production, serves as a reminder of the power of audiovisual expression in presenting identity, conveying truth, and opening up new economic and social opportunities.
Through panels, presentations, and open discussions, participants will have the chance to hear the views of producers, directors, actors, journalists, cultural workers, and representatives of institutions, who will highlight the potential of BiH as an attractive film destination.
The Minister of Culture, Sports, and Youth of Tuzla Canton, Damir Gazdić, also addressed the audience, pointing out that the canton has so far had very limited funds for culture and that film production has been almost completely neglected.
In this regard, he informed those present of his decision to introduce a special budget line next year dedicated exclusively to film production—for film shooting, script development, and support for film art in the Tuzla Canton.
Gazdić also referred to the Law on Culture, which he described as restrictive to some extent, especially regarding publishing and cultural content.
This year’s Media Innovation and Trends (M.I.T.) conference is organized by FENA with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Youth of Tuzla Canton, the Tuzla City Tourist Board, and the sponsorship of the Development Bank of FBiH, NLB Bank, and Sparkasse Bank.
(FENA) A. B.




