MBHEC was established in November 2023 to formalize and expand civilian cooperation between the State of Maryland and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Its creation marked the twentieth anniversary of the Maryland–Bosnia and Herzegovina State Partnership Program, which since 2003 has linked the Maryland National Guard with Bosnian counterparts through defense and civil-military collaboration.

While that partnership has long served as a foundation for mutual trust, its focus remained primarily on security cooperation. The establishment of MBHEC responded to a shared recognition by leaders in both governments that the partnership’s next stage required a sustained civilian dimension. The Council was therefore designed as a coordinating platform to connect Maryland and Bosnia and Herzegovina through education, culture, commerce, public administration, and community engagement.

MBHEC operates as a bridge between institutions and communities. It facilitates exchanges among universities, local governments, private sector actors, and diaspora networks, translating strategic cooperation into practical initiatives that can benefit citizens on both sides of the Atlantic.

In 2024 and 2025, MBHEC translated its mission into tangible action, building bridges across communities, governments, and cultural institutions. From forging new partnerships and amplifying cultural exchange to empowering youth and advancing academic collaboration, our efforts reflected both breadth and depth. The highlights in the report capture the momentum we’ve created and the foundation we’ve laid for even greater impact in the years ahead.