"Boosting Regional Economic Development of the Western Balkans with the ‘Giro Di Ciro’ Greenway"


  • SOLICITATION NUMBER: 0002017440
  • INSTITUTION:  IBRD/IDA , IFC , MIGA , ICSID
  • ASSIGNMENT LOCATION: N/A
  • ISSUE DATE AND TIME: Aug 15,2025 05:08
  • CLOSING DATE AND TIME: Aug 28,2025 23:59

The Western Balkans hold significant untapped potential for sustainable tourism and active mobility. The disused Belgrade-to-Adriatic narrow-gauge railway—spanning 774 kilometers across Serbia; Bosnia and Herzegovina; Croatia; and Montenegro—offers a rare opportunity to catalyze regional integration; boost local economies; and reduce transport emissions through the creation of a scenic greenway. Linking iconic cities like Sarajevo; Dubrovnik; and Mostar with national parks and UNESCO heritage sites; the proposed “Giro di Ciro” route could transform a legacy corridor into a vibrant; cross-border trail for cyclists; hikers; and nature tourists. By promoting active travel and revitalizing rural communities; the initiative aligns with national climate strategies and development goals across the “WeBe6” countries.This project will help define the institutional and financial roadmap to realize the Giro di Ciro greenway. The project will clarify governance arrangements and asset responsibilities; develop a sustainable financing strategy; and produce a detailed business and tourism case for a priority stretch within Bosnia and Herzegovina for a length up to 200km. It will also facilitate stakeholder engagement and promote the initiative through a high-level regional event expected to take place towards the end of 2025. By laying the groundwork for cross-border collaboration and long-term investment; the activity will position the Giro di Ciro as a model for greenway development in the region; serving as a catalyst for decarbonized transport; rural revitalization; and sustainable tourism across the Western Balkans. The assignment requires a multidisciplinary consulting firm or consortium with a strong track record— having completed multiple similar transport and public sector projects in Europe —supported by a diverse team that includes at least two international and two local experts; and key personnel with qualifications in regional planning; sustainable tourism; finance; and governance; including a team leader with proven project management experience. Preferably the firm should also have experience working with the public sector in the Western Balkans. Expressions of Interest should highlight the firm's qualifications and relevant experience.

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