World Conference on Science and Art for Sustainability
September 22–24, 2025, Belgrade, Serbia
Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, National Museum, Zepter Museum, and Ethnographic Museum
International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development
Host and Co-Hosts:
Other Organizing Institutions:
Year of Student Protests. Why? How? Whither?
By Slobodan G. Markovich, University of Belgrade Faculty of Political Science
Serbia’s GenX population had had an idealised picture of the EU 25 years ago, while today’s Zoomers have witnessed the EU in crisis, but are fully committed to European values
wo professors of the Belgrade Faculty of Political Science (Miloš Bešić and myself) conducted academic research between 23rd January and 20th May 2025 aimed at better determining the reasons behind the mass student protests. We prepared and submitted a questionnaire to student plenums of 12 Belgrade-based faculties and received answers from 515 respondents.
TThese protests have so far had three distinct stages: the initial stage (Dec. 2024 – Jan. 2025); the freedom mapping stage (27th Jan. 2025 – May 2025); and the stage of political demands (June 2025 onwards). Our research was conducted during the freedom mapping stage when students mapped zones and routes of freedom by their marches.
Results show that 41.2% decided to participate in the protests either due to police brutality and other forms of repression or out of solidarity with detained/arrested colleagues, while 27.6% want more freedoms. A whopping 96% believe Serbia’s political opponents are being repressed, while almost 70% consider themselves
part of a worldwide movement for democratisation.
When asked which of several statements best defines the movement’s aspirations, 65% chose “fight for justice”, while 17.5% opted for “fight for the democratisation of society” and only 8.7% picked “fight for greater equality in society”. It is thus clear that the essential message of the movement was missed by those claiming that these student protests represent an anarchist or radical left-wing movement, or are nationalist and right-wing. In stark contrast, students have taken an approach of liberal constitutionalism. This is also confirmed by the question of what surveyed students
Overall, the message of students in plenums is clear: they want justice, rule of law, functional institutions and democracy
would do if they could make one sure change in Serbia? Some 47.4% would change institutions, the rule of law, democracy and the political system, while 22% would replace the current administration and 9% would choose economic development. Only 3.5% believe that Serbia could become a democratic country without changing the government.
Students feel attached to Serbia, but also to their local region and community. Serbia’s Zoomers and other stu-
dents are generally very accommodating of personal freedoms and different lifestyles. Their identity could be defined as inclusive and fluid or, as my colleague Miloš Bešić put it, they have inclusive heterogeneity.
With regard to an EU membership referendum, 59% of those who’ve already decided would vote in favour of Serbia’s membership, while 41% would vote against. The survey was largely conducted prior to the organising of student running and cycling marathons to Strasburg and Brussels, so the results would likely favour the EU much more if the survey had been conducted during the third stage of protests. On the whole, one could conclude that these students favour European values much more than had been the case back in 2000. Serbia’s GenX population had had an idealised picture of the EU 25 years ago, while today’s Zoomers have witnessed the EU in crisis and are sceptical when it comes to the Union’s institutional capabilities and readiness to foster regional democratisation, but are fully committed to European values.
Overall, the message of students in plenums is clear: they want justice, rule of law, functional institutions and democracy. They strongly oppose state-sponsored violence, brutality and corruption. When it comes to where they’re going next, the students provided an answer in the third stage of their protest by defining snap elections as the only institutional exit from the current crisis – the deepest Serbia has witnessed in this century.
Photo by Marija
Business Alcazar of Adria
Technology can Anchor our Partnership
My vision is for the UK and Serbia to work together not only as trading partners, but as innovation partners — combining talent, investment and political will to deliver sustainable, inclusive growth - Lord Kulveer Ranger
Lord Ranger of Northwood Chair of the British-Serbian Chamber of Commerce
I
n this exclusive interview for CorD Magazine, Lord Kulveer Ranger of Northwood, Chair of the British-Serbian Chamber of Commerce, speaks about his vision for strengthening UK–Serbia relations. Drawing on his unique experience at the crossroads of politics, public service, and frontier technology, he shares insights on how trade, innovation, and people-to-people connections can shape a modern partnership. Lord Ranger highlights the opportunities for collaboration in areas ranging from fintech, artificial intelligence and green energy, to education, digital transformation and smart city development, stressing that the future of bilateral cooperation
lies not only in commerce, but also in shared values and long-term trust.
Lord Ranger, earlier this year you were appointed Chair of the British-Serbian Chamber of Commerce. What motivated you to take on this role, and how would you describe your vision for the Chamber’s contribution to strengthening bilateral relations between the UK and Serbia?
— I was honoured to be invited to take on the role of Chair of the British-Serbian Chamber of Commerce earlier this year. My motivation stems from a lifelong belief in the power of trade, enterprise, and people-to-people connections to build bridges between na-
tions. Both the United Kingdom and Serbia have much to offer each other — whether in terms of talent, innovation, or opportunities for investment — and I see the Chamber as a platform to unlock that potential.
My vision for the Chamber is twofold. First, to make it easier for British and Serbian businesses — from established multinationals to small and medium-sized enterprises — to find common ground, develop partnerships, and navigate each other›s markets with confidence. Second, to ensure that our commercial ties are not just about transactions, but about building enduring relationships rooted in trust, mutual respect, and shared prosperity.
In particular, I believe there are exciting opportunities in the technology sector, where Serbia has built a strong reputation for skilled engineers, digital innovation, and a vibrant start-up ecosystem. By connecting this talent and creativity with the UK’s global leadership in fintech, AI, and advanced services, we can help both economies grow and create new opportunities for collaboration.
Ultimately, I want the Chamber to act as a catalyst: helping to strengthen bilateral trade and investment, while also supporting cultural understanding and cooperation in areas such as education, technology, and sustainability. If we succeed, both our economies will benefit, but more importantly, so will the friendship between our peoples.
Given your background at the intersection of politics, public service, and frontier technology, what do you see as the key areas where the UK and Serbia can deepen their economic cooperation in the coming years?
— Having worked at the intersection of politics, public service, and in frontier technologies, I have seen firsthand how innovation and international collaboration can transform economies and societies. That experience shapes my view of the opportunities between the UK and Serbia.
I believe the technology sector offers the most immediate potential. Serbia has established itself as a regional hub for software engineering, gaming, and digital innovation, with a generation of highly skilled talent. The UK, meanwhile, has deep strengths in areas such as fintech, artificial intelligence, and life sciences. By connecting these ecosystems, we can create joint ventures, attract investment, and build solutions that are competitive on a global scale.
I also see a role for closer ties in education and skills development. Having engaged with both policymakers and entrepreneurs throughout my career, I know that long-term prosper-
Technology must solve real problems for citizens, not just showcase what is possible
ity comes from investing in people. Partnerships between our universities, research institutions, and vocational programmes can help equip the next generation in both countries for the jobs of the future. It is also why I was so pleased that we have recently been able to established a new Innovation Policy Ignition Programme (IPIP) which will be delivered by Hug hes Hall, University of Cambridge, was signed with the Science and Technology Park in Novi Sad.
In short, my vision is for the UK and Serbia to work together not only as trading partners, but as innovation partners — combining talent, investment, and political will to deliver growth that is both sustainable and inclusive.
You took part in the UK–Serbia Technology Trade Mission in Novi Sad in May. What were your main takeaways from that event, and how do you expect its outcomes to shape the future of business collaboration between our two countries?
— The UK–Serbia Technology Trade Mission in Novi Sad was a real highlight for me, because it brought together exactly the kind of energy and talent that can drive our bilateral relationship forward. My main takeaway was just how complementary our strengths are. Serbia has built an impressive ecosystem of engineers, start-ups, and innovators, while the UK brings deep experience in scaling businesses, attracting investment, and applying technologies globally.
What struck me most was the spirit of collaboration. Conversations weren’t just about contracts or transactions; they were about co-creating solutions — whether in AI, fintech, or green tech — that can compete internationally. That mindset gives me confidence that we’re building partnerships with real longevity.
Looking ahead, I expect the mission›s outcomes to shape business collaboration in three ways. First, by giving UK companies greater confidence to invest in and partner with Serbian counterparts. Second, by opening doors for Serbian firms to access the UK›s capital markets and innovation networks. And third, by setting a precedent: this should be the first of many missions that create a regu-
Photo by STP Novi Sad
INNOVATION
Technology can become the anchor of a modern UK–Serbia partnership — connecting talent, innovation, and opportunity
lar rhythm of exchange between our two countries.
In short, Novi Sad confirmed to me that technology can be the anchor of a modern UK–Serbia economic partnership — one built on shared ambition, mutual respect, and the creativity of our people.
The BSCC, in cooperation with the Department for Business and Trade, is organising a major conference in Serbia this November, which you will also be attending. What key messages will you bring to the participants, and what impact do you hope the event will have on the business community?
— I am very excited about the regional summit BSCC is organising and my key message to participants will be that the UK, Serbia and the Western Balkan region are natural partners for growth in the 21st-century economy. We have complementary strengths — the region with its highly skilled workforce and growing tech ecosys-
VISION
The Chamber must be a catalyst for stronger UK–Serbia ties
PARTNERSHIP
Partnerships between our universities, research institutions, and vocational programmes can help equip the next generation in both countries for the jobs of the future
tem, and the UK with its global networks, capital, and expertise in scaling innovation. When we bring those assets together, we create opportunities that are greater than the sum of their parts.
I will also emphasise that this conference is not just about promoting trade — it’s about building long-term, trustbased partnerships. Having worked in various global regions in my career and across politics, public service, and industry, I’ve seen how sustained collaboration delivers the most meaningful impact, whether in fintech, AI, green energy, or advanced manufacturing.
My hope is that this year›s summit will inspire businesses on all sides to think boldly about what they can achieve together — and to see the Western Balkans not only as a market, but as a gateway to regional opportunity. If we can leave the conference with new connections, concrete investment prospects, and a shared commitment to innovation and sus-
tainability, then we will have made a lasting contribution to the future of UK–Western Balkan relations.
You have been closely involved in strategic initiatives ranging from the London Oyster card to major digital transformation projects. Which lessons from these experiences do you consider most relevant for Serbia as it advances its own digitalisation and smart city development? — My experience on projects such as the Oyster card in London and wider digital transformation initiatives has taught me that technology on its own is never the answer — it only succeeds when it is embedded in clear strategy, strong institutions, and public trust.
The first lesson is the importance of user-centred design. The Oyster card worked because it made life simpler and more reliable for millions of people every day. As Serbia develops its smart city solutions, the same principle applies: technology must solve real problems for citizens, not just showcase what is possible.
The second lesson is integration. Digital transformation works best when systems talk to each other — transport, payments, identity, services — so that the citizen experiences seamless connectivity rather than fragmented silos.
And finally, public trust and governance are critical. Having worked in public service, I know that citizens will only embrace digital services if they feel their data is secure, their rights are respected, and the system is fair.
If Serbia can combine its growing pool of technical talent with these lessons on strategy, integration, and trust, it has the chance not just to catch up, but to leapfrog and set a benchmark for smart, citizen-focused innovation.
Photo by STP Novi Sad
Diplomacy 101
Those stories (of alleged UK involvement in the organisation of civic protests in Serbia) are ridiculous, but not totally harmless. They can get in the way of all the positive things we’re trying to do. For example, it doesn’t help when it comes to encouraging investment or tourism that innocent British visitors to Serbia have been publicly accused in your media of being spies! The truth is that we remain absolutely neutral when it comes to Serbian domestic politics ~ Edward Ferguson
H.E. Edward Ferguson
UK
Ambassador to Serbia
By Ljubica Gojgić
This autumn will see the UK capital host a new gathering of leaders of the Western Balkans and European countries involved in dialogue on this region’s stabilisation and future development. The London summit, which will form part of the Berlin Process, will focus on “fostering closer partnerships on trade and connectivity to accelerate economic growth,” explains the UK’s ambassador to Serbia in this interview for CorD Magazine.
Your Excellency, you recently stated that you are “pleased with the progress achieved over the past two years in building a more positive, modern and forward-looking relationship with Serbia”. In which areas has this progress been most evident?
— Actually, what I’m really pleased about is the wide range of areas where we’ve seen really exciting collaboration. That includes the economy, where our trade partnership is now worth more than a billion pounds annually. It also includes security cooperation, where our armed forces and law enforcement agencies work ever more closely together to keep our citizens and our borders safe and secure. And it includes our cultural cooperation, where, for example, the British Council has just concluded a fantastic exhibition by David Hockney, and where we look forward to welcoming the England football team to Belgrade in September.
Which projects are currently at the forefront of the UK–Serbia economic partnership, the strengthening of which you have identified as one of your priorities?
— Again, our economic cooperation is increasingly broad-based. We have a solid foundation in traditional sectors like construction, energy, mining and pharmaceuticals. For example, the UK has provided over 400 million euros in funding for the Morava Corridor highway that is reducing journey times in central Serbia. But we’re also seeing fast-growing cooperation in newer sectors. I recently visited the silo of Gapuma, the UK’s first investor in Serbia’s agricultural sector, and I’m delighted that more and more Serbian food, wine and rakija and finding their way into UK shops. The fastest-growing area is the IT sector, reflecting London’s role as the digital capital of Europe. We hosted a fantastic tech conference in Novi Sad recently, and that has resulted in a lot of UK digital and AI companies becoming interested in Serbia. And we’re also closely connected in biotech. Serbia’s new Bio4 campus is taking a lot
The British Council has just concluded a fantastic exhibition by David Hockney and we look forward to welcoming the England football team to Belgrade in September
of advice from Imperial College London and other UK campuses, while AstraZeneca has also signed up as a Bio4 partner. So, there’s a lot going on and I’m really ambitious to grow our trade still further.
The recent visit to Serbia by the UK’s Special Envoy for the Balkans, Dame Karen Pierce, included a meeting with the Rector of the University of Belgrade that drew negative comments from some quarters of the public. How do you respond to claims that this meeting is proof of your country’s involvement in the civic protests in Serbia, which the authorities describe as a “colour revolution”?
— The simple answer is that it’s absolute nonsense. These baseless conspiracy theories say a lot more about the quality of some of your tabloid media than they do about the activities of the UK Government in Serbia. The stories are ridiculous, but they are not totally harmless. They can get in the way of all the positive things we’re trying to do. For example, it doesn’t help to encourage investment or tourism that in-
nocent British visitors to Serbia have been publicly accused in your media of being spies! The truth is that we remain absolutely neutral when it comes to Serbian domestic politics. As our Foreign Secretary demonstrated when he visited in April, we are working ever more closely with President Vučić and the elected Serbian government on the priorities I’ve just described, and we are very grateful for that. But it is also our job to develop the best possible understanding of Serbian politics and society. That’s why we talk to anyone and everyone – in government, opposition, business, civil society, academia and the media – as we do everywhere else around the world. That’s diplomacy 101, and we would expect exactly the same from Serbian diplomats in the UK. Having a conversation does not in any way denote support for, or opposition to, any party or individual, just as Dame Karen’s meetings during the same visit with your President, Prime Minister, Parliamentary Speaker and Ministers do not mean that we are taking sides in your politics. With everyone we talk to, we continue to advocate dialogue and reform as the best way to resolve political disputes, to strengthen institutions and the rule of law, and to accelerate Serbia’s European integration.
You have emphasised repeatedly that Serbs in Kosovo must be protected and that the Community of Serb Municipalities must be established. Neither has happened, yet the authorities in Pristina appear to face no consequences from the international community for disregarding the Brussels Agreement. Is Ivica Dačić justified in saying that he was deceived in those negotiations that were led by Catherine Ashton? — I think Minister Dačić has clarified that his frustration is about the slow pace of implementing the Brussels Agreement, not its substance. And I share some of that frustration. The UK government has long advocated the establishing of the Community of Serb Municipalities. It is a binding commitment from
TRADE
Our trade partnership is now worth more than a billion pounds annually
VISAS
We keep our visa policy under regular review, although I’m not expecting radical changes soon
COOPERATION
We have a solid foundation in traditional sectors like construction, energy, mining and pharmaceuticals
over a decade ago, and is frankly long overdue. We believe it would make a positive difference to the Serb community in northern Kosovo. At the same time, there are also binding commitments on the Serbian side that have yet to be implemented. For example, Serbia agreed not to object to Kosovo’s membership of any international organisation, but continues to oppose its membership of bodies such as the Council of Europe. The bottom line is that it is firmly in the interests of Serbia and Kosovo to normalise their relations, so that both can focus on growing their economies and finally joining the EU. The good news is that, in the Ohrid Agreement, both Belgrade and Pristina have agreed on what needs to be done. We want both sides to deliver on their commitments, and are doing what we can to help. For example, we recently helped to resolve the longstanding issue around registering land belonging to Dečani Monastery.
Unlike the authorities in Pristina, the President of Republika Srpska, Milorad Dodik – whom you hold responsible for political instability in Bosnia and Herzegovina – has been subject to sanctions for three years. Why are these two approaches so different?
— I served for four years as UK ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, so I know former President Dodik well. BiH is a beautiful country with wonderful people, but it has long been held back by political leaders whose preferred method of clinging to power is to stoke tensions between the various ethnic groups. Mr Dodik is certainly not the only leader who has done that. Bosniak and Croat political leaders have played their own part. But, over time, Mr Dodik’s actions have reached the point at which they represent a direct
and deliberate challenge to the Dayton Peace Agreement, to the sovereign state of BiH and to the authority of its institutions. Simply put, they are illegal and unconstitutional. That’s what makes his case different and why we’ve implemented sanctions against him. It is in no-one’s interests – not the UK’s and certainly not Serbia’s – to see renewed instability in BiH. My government’s focus remains firmly on upholding the Dayton principles of a single, sovereign state of BiH comprising two entities: the Federation of BiH and Republika Srpska. We strongly support BiH’s system of government, where the RS has very significant devolved authorities – but the RS only exists by virtue of the BiH Constitution, which must be respected.
Could you tell us what the key topics will be at the ministerial conference that’s scheduled for Octo-
ber and will form part of the Berlin Process?
— We are delighted that the UK will again host the Berlin Process Summit in London this year. It is a crucial platform for dialogue and cooperation between Western Balkan leaders and their European counterparts. Our aim at the Summit will be to support the region’s EU integration and enhance regional stability. We will seek to foster closer partnerships on trade and connectivity to accelerate economic growth. For example, we recently brought the region’s culture ministers together to discuss the huge potential of the region’s creative economies. And we will encourage closer cooperation on security issues, including cyber security and tackling the shared threat of illegal migration.
You have said that one of your aims is to improve Britain’s reputation in Serbia. You have probably often heard citizens ask when visas will be lifted. Why has this aspect of the UK’s policy towards Serbia remained unchanged for nearly 35 years? — I do get asked a lot about visas, and I recognise that it’s a source of frustration for many. We keep our visa policy under regular review, although I’m not expecting radical changes soon. It’s not just Serbia though. Nationals of all Western Balkan countries require visas to enter the UK. The good news is that we are modernising our system and introducing e-visas. This means that people won’t have to send away their passports, but can access their vignettes digitally. E-visas are already available for some categories, including students, and will be rolled out for Serbian tourists in the coming months. We hope this will make it even easier for Serbians to visit, study and do business in the UK.
Gaza City
Declared in Famine
The UN-backed IPC has formally declared famine in Gaza City, pushing the humanitarian crisis to its most severe level. More than half a million people are now facing catastrophic hunger, with food systems collapsing under siege conditions. Aid agencies warn that children are dying daily from preventable malnutrition. This is the first time in decades that famine has been declared in the region, a marker of international alarm. The crisis is fuelling calls for immediate ceasefire and unrestricted aid access.
“We are entering an era where no nation can solve global challenges alone.”
Ban Ki-moon
Xi, Putin and Modi Gather in Tianjin
China hosted its most ambitious diplomatic summit yet, welcoming Russia’s Vladimir Putin and India’s Narendra Modi for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The meeting underscored Beijing’s growing role as a convener of Global South power. For Moscow, it was a chance to showcase solidarity amid continued war in Ukraine. Modi’s attendance marked his first visit to China in seven years, signalling a tentative thaw in relations. The summit projected an image of multipolar realignment against U.S. dominance.
U.S. Court Rebukes Trump’s Tariffs
A federal appeals court has struck down most of Donald Trump’s sweeping global tariffs, branding them an unconstitutional overreach. The ruling delivered a sharp blow to Trump’s trade agenda, though tariffs remain in place until mid-October pending appeal. Economists say the decision could reset U.S. relations with major trading partners. Business groups welcomed the ruling, citing relief for importers and consumers. The White House vowed to continue the fight, framing the tariffs as a national security issue.
“Climate change is the defining issue of our time, and we are at a defining moment.”
Al Gore
IMF’s Gopinath Issues Final Warning
Departing IMF deputy chief Gita Gopinath used her farewell address to warn of three storms facing the global economy. She highlighted volatile uncertainty, ballooning public debt projected to reach 100% of global GDP, and AI’s disruption of labour markets. Gopinath urged governments to prepare for structural shocks rather than rely on cyclical fixes. Her remarks reflected a growing consensus that economic orthodoxy is no longer enough. Investors and policymakers alike are bracing for a turbulent decade ahead.
Climateflation Drives Food Prices Higher
Extreme heat, drought and floods are pushing up the cost of global food staples in what economists now call “climateflation.” From wheat in Europe to rice in Asia, production shortfalls are rippling through markets. Families in low-income nations are shifting to cheaper, less nutritious foods. Aid agencies warn of a silent nutritional crisis emerging alongside inflation. Analysts say the trend may redefine global diets and deepen divides between rich and poor households.
Iceland Named World’s Safest Country
A new global ranking crowned Iceland the safest country in the world, reinforcing its reputation for stability. Low crime, strong institutions and geopolitical neutrality all boosted the Nordic nation. The accolade comes as much of the world faces rising conflict and instability. Iceland’s model is increasingly studied by policymakers seeking resilience. The recognition also boosts its profile as a haven for tourism and investment.
The Economy Seeks an Internal Support Pillar
With future growth dependent on domestic demand and private sector development, today’s political demands – primarily the struggle for institutional independence and expertise – are becoming a key condition for economic progress
Following this year’s relative slowdown in economic growth, is Serbia on the road to experience a recovery over the next two years, as suggested by current World Bank and IMF estimates? Or is falling export demand and potential investment inflow contraction leading to the expectation that this slowdown will last longer? Will the departure
from Serbia of individual investors and the closing of factories only impact the sections of the country in which those companies operated or will the consequences be further reaching? What renders Serbia relatively resistant to global instability and what increases its vulnerability? These are the questions we posed to our interlocutors at a juncture when 2025 is starting to
wind down, while 2026 looks like it will be equally complex. Representing balls and chains around the ankles of the country are issues like global tension, European auto industry problems, internal political issues and the shortcomings of growth based exclusively on FDI inflows. Untangling these factors isn’t easy, but nor is it impossible.
Bojan Stanić Assistant Director of the CCIS Department of Strategic Analysis, Services and Internationalisation
Potential Exists, But So Do Limitations
Serbia will continue to rely over the coming years on internal growth sources, investment in infrastructure and domestic consumption. Whether this will prove sufficient to achieve the projected growth rate of 4.2% depends to a large extent on external economic factors that limit this potential
International financial institutions have encouraging estimates suggesting that the Serbian economy will achieve a higher growth rate in the year ahead, but this depends on factors that determine the current macroeconomic framework in Europe and around the world. Specifically, economic dynamics in 2026 will depend greatly on the development of the situation with customs duties and free trade restrictions, as well as relations generally between the world’s leading economies, first and foremost the U.S. and China. However, Serbia will continue in the coming year to focus to a large extent on internal sources of growth, such as the implementation of infrastructure projects and the growth of personal consumption among the domestic population. We believe it is realistic for the country to achieve a growth rate of 4.2% in the coming year, as the potential to do so exists, but as things currently stand, the economy will have to adapt to policies that are created in major centres of power, which certainly limits the aforementioned growth potential, particularly when it comes to developing countries and emerging markets.
The dramatic reduction in Serbia’s FDI inflows is primarily a consequence of events in Europe, where economic stagnation and medium-term uncertainty are reducing the funding available for investment in other countries. The political situation in the country has also contributed to this to a certain extent, but that isn’t the essential factor given that the credit rating has been preserved and positive expectations exist regarding further advancement in the year ahead – at least according to credit rating agencies.
The fact is that capital is being withdrawn from labour-intensive areas of the country’s economy, due to Serbia no longer representing a country with cheap labour, while the social sphere is being hit by redundancies in parts of the country that
lack major economic activity and job opportunities. A solution thus needs to be found when it comes to securing adequate employment for the people losing their jobs in those areas of the country, in order to prevent their possible decision to emigrate from damaging the country’s demographic picture. Serbia is nonetheless significantly more resilient now compared to during the period of the 2008 world financial crisis, thanks primarily to significantly higher industrial potential, completion of the implementation of fiscal consolidation, signed free trade agreements etc.
Representing the biggest challenges for Serbia are German recession spillovers, labour shortages,
EU integration stagnation and, above all, an extremely negative demographic trend
Moreover, Serbia isn’t only the Western Balkans’ leading investment destination, but also the region’s most integrated country when it comes to international supply chains. Thanks to its location, but also state investments, Serbia is a hub of pan-European corridors that has direct aviation links to most European and Middle Eastern countries, the U.S. and China etc. Serbia also has growing significance when it comes to the IT sector, thanks to which it achieves a fiscal surplus in the exchange of services with the rest of the world. The University of Belgrade is also the most prestigious higher education institution in Southeast Europe, while science and technology parks have been built in the country.
Branimir Jovanović Vienna Institute for International Economic Studies (wiiw)
Political and Economic Hub
Serbia won’t be able to achieve serious growth without a political resolution through elections and a change in the economic model. One doesn’t function without the other
Serbia is today confronted by two types of obstacles to faster economic growth. The first type are cyclical and short-term in nature, while the second are structural and long-term.
Cyclical problems are reflected in this year’s Q1 slowdown that saw growth fall to just 2%. The main reason for this was reduced investment, with FDI halving compared to last year as a result of global uncertainty in the face of Trump’s tariffs and fears over a potential trade war. Domestic household consumption also fell as a result of the internal political crisis, but nonetheless registered slight growth. In the public debate of previous months over whether weaker growth is a consequence of the domestic political crisis or global uncertainty, it therefore seems as though both factors had an impact, but the external factor had a stronger influence.
H owever, structural problems are more serious. Serbia has spent the past two decades building its growth on two pillars: FDI inflows and state infrastructure investments. With global uncertainty becoming a chronic problem, reliance on foreign investment has clearly become unstable. And it is difficult to expect foreign investment to return to previous levels even when the current cyclical shocks subside. This means that the current growth model, which is based to a large extent on foreign capital, is no longer proving sufficient. Without new support pillars – in the form of domestic private investments and new industrial and innovation pol-
icies – Serbia won’t be able to recreate the growth rates it achieved over the previous decade, let alone exceed them.
What can be done? On the cyclical front, it is necessary to eliminate political uncertainty and stabilise domestic conditions. This would encourage citizens to spend and companies to invest. State investments had already recovered by the second quar-
Serbia won’t be able to recreate the growth rates of the previous decade, let alone exceed them, without new support pillars in the form of private investments and new industrial and innovation policies
ter, increasing by around 20%, but it is necessary to achieve more domestic private investment and higher consumption, which is only possible in an environment of greater stability. On the structural front, it is necessary to make a change to the economic model. Serbia must rely more on its own strengths: domestic companies, production with greater added value and encouraging innovation.
Serbia can thus achieve higher growth, but only if it solves its domestic political crisis – through elections – while simultaneously changing its economic model. One won’t be sufficient without the other.
Dr Dragovan Milićević economist
FDI Slowdown Certain
Economic
growth indicators for
the first half of the year show continued growth of 2 to 2.3% compared to the same period of last year, while they nonetheless contain certain risks until year’s end 2025
Asignificant decrease in agricultural production is primarily expected as a result of extremely unfavourable weather conditions and a significant reduction in yields for almost all crops. The construction industry has to date contributed significantly to economic growth, but it is now also showing signs of a slowdown.
A question arises as to whether Serbia has exhausted its existing economic growth model, which relies on FDI inflows and areas of the economy that have lower gross added value. A slowdown in FDI inflows can be expected, given the similar trend recorded in other countries of Central and Eastern Europe. A withdrawal process can also be observed, with investors pulling out in response to the European crisis that’s hit certain sectors, particularly the auto industry. Another unfavourable trend (which can be expected in later investment cycle stages) is the withdrawal of profits from the country, which is also reflected in movements in the balance of base gains (inflows and outflows on the basis of foreign investments). Key growth segments continue to exist in economic activities that contribute the most to overall growth: the processing industry, energy, construction and agriculture.
However, given economic trends in the countries of the EU –which is Serbia’s key foreign trade partner – it is unrealistic to expect significant economic growth in the period ahead. Pressure is also being applied to the local economy by the withdrawal of companies that have invested in Serbia, primarily in auto industry parts production and assembly, as a
Serbia finds itself in the so-called “middleincome trap”, with all the challenges and consequences entailed by such a position
result of declining activity and the relocating of production operations, as well as the pronounced competition from Chinese vehicle manufacturers. This results in the laying off of workers and declining activity at companies in the cooperation chain, but also negative budget impacts – both on the income side (due to the absence of expected inflows) and on the expenditure side (due to the need to temporarily care for redundant workers).
Western Balkans & the Berlin Process
The London Summit of 22 October 2025 comes at a moment of geopolitical uncertainty, when the European perspective of the region is both affirmed and tested. The Berlin Process, a decade on, continues to oscillate between promises of integration and the reality of unfinished reforms
When the Berlin Process was launched in 2014 at the initiative of then German
Chancellor Angela Merkel, it was designed as a temporary framework – a fouryear platform to keep the Western Balkans engaged with Europe at a time when the EU had announced a “pause in enlargement”. A decade later, it has become a permanent fixture of regional politics, producing both tangible results and recurring frustrations.
The London summit of the Berlin Process on 22 October 2025 will bring together leaders of the Western Balkans Six – Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia – alongside representatives of the EU, international financial institutions and the governments of the host countries, including Germany, France, Italy, the United Kingdom and others. The meeting will take place in Hillsborough Castle near Belfast, a location with strong symbolism of recon -
ciliation. The summit will be preceded by ministerial and expert forums on economics, energy, digitalisation, youth cooperation and civil society.
The achievements of the Berlin Process are not negligible. The Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO) has involved over 30,000 young people in exchanges. Roaming charges across the region have been abolished. Connectivity projects have channelled EU funding into infrastructure, energy and digitalisation. The Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans, worth €30 billion, has already disbursed more than €16 billion. A new CEFTA-based trade agreement is expected in London, potentially aligning the region more closely with the EU Single Market.
Yet the deficits are equally clear. Mobility agreements that should have eased the flow of people, workers and students remain largely unimplemented. Political disputes, most notably between Belgrade and Pristina, continue to block regional initiatives. The credibility
of enlargement has been eroded by repeated delays and EU divisions. The Berlin Process has often appeared as a substitute for enlargement rather than a bridge towards it.
The London summit takes place in a fraught geopolitical context. With the war in Ukraine reshaping Europe’s security agenda, Western leaders see the Balkans less as a remote region and more as a strategic frontline. Britain, no longer an EU member but keen to assert influence, is stepping forward as host. Analysts point to London’s traditional role in countering Russian influence in the Balkans, and to the renewed Franco-British partnership following the “Friendship Treaty” signed this summer. The message is clear: the Western Balkans should not be left as a “grey zone” open to rival powers.
For the region itself, the summit offers both opportunity and risk. On one hand, a stronger UK role could diversify support beyond Brussels and Berlin. On the other, external actors may prioritise strategic stability over
the democratic and economic reforms that citizens expect.
Scepticism in the region is real. While privatisation revenues, new investments and integration into value chains are tangible, citizens remain wary of promises unfulfilled. Public discourse often highlights the imbalance between high-level declarations and the daily obstacles to trade, mobility and the rule of law. For many, the Berlin Process has become a symbol of slow progress –
better than nothing, but far from enough. The forthcoming summit in London will not resolve all disputes. It may, however, mark a new phase in which the Western Balkans are drawn deeper into European security and economic frameworks, whether or not formal enlargement accelerates. In this sense, the Berlin Process is less about sentiment and more about strategy. Its endurance over a decade shows that the Western Balkans remain too important to be ignored – and too unfinished to be fully integrated.
Whether the London meeting will produce breakthroughs or merely another set of carefully worded communiqués remains to be seen. What is certain is that the credibility of the European project in the Western Balkans will depend less on summitry and more on consistent political will, both in the region and in the EU.
The Berlin Process was born of necessity. Ten years on, it survives because necessity has not gone away.
United for Friendship and Growth
“Our role is to open doors and connect businesses, enabling British and Serbian companies to seize the opportunities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” says Jadranka Dervišević Kitarić, Executive Director of the BSCC
Q&A
with
Jadranka Dervišević Kitarić Executive Director of the British-Serbian Chamber of Commerce (BSCC)
We have entered a period of almost unprecedented change, marked by volatility, uncertainty and complexity. The geopolitical landscape is in flux, yet the UK and Serbia remain united in friendship and trade. Thanks to the British-Serbian Chamber of Commerce, the two countries are not only strengthening their trade ties, but are also actively collaborating on adapting to the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Given your extensive experience in business development and cross-border trade – how would you assess the current impact of the Partnership, Trade and Cooperation Agreement between Serbia and the UK (in force since July 2021), and what are the most important benefits for the Serbian economy?
— The British-Serbian Chamber of Commerce is a bilateral institution, accredited by the British Chamber of Commerce, with its head office in London and a representative office in Serbia. Our mission is to facilitate trade between the UK and Serbia, helping businesses in both countries to identify opportunities, build trusted partnerships and achieve sustainable growth.
Since our founding in 2008, the BSCC has steadily expanded, but the real turning point came in 2021 with the enactment of the UK–Serbia Partnership, Trade and Cooperation Agreement. This agreement not only ensured post-Brexit trade continuity, but also created a new framework for growth and cooperation.
The results speak for themselves: bilateral trade has increased by around
The BSCC will continue to support bilateral trade and the development of talent
40% since 2021, rising from £772 million to more than £1.1 billion in 2024. In parallel, BSCC membership has grown by over 180%, reflecting the confidence of businesses in both markets.
The strongest growth has come in IT and digital services, advanced manufacturing, professional services, agriculture and food exports, as well as renewables and green technologies. This sectoral diversity demonstrates the depth of opportunities in UK–Serbia relations, and the Chamber’s role has been to provide the network and expertise that enable companies to succeed.
Which sectors (such as ICT, fintech, infrastructure, agribusiness) show the greatest potential for British companies in Serbia? How does the BSCC contribute to connecting actors from those industries? — Several verticals stand out as particularly attractive for British companies in Serbia, with ICT and digital services leading the way. Serbia has become a regional technology hub with a highly skilled workforce, making it a natural partner for UK software, fintech and digital innovation enterprises. Recently, we organised a Tech Summit in Novi Sad together with the British Embassy, the UK Department for Business and Trade and the Serbian Government, which brought together more than 350 companies. UK businesses had the opportunity to meet Serbian counterparts directly and to hear first-hand about the exciting opportunities that the Serbian ICT sector has to offer.
Beyond ICT, infrastructure and construction are also expanding, with major projects in transport, energy and green development where British engineering and consultancy firms can bring significant expertise. Building on the success of the first UK–Western Balkans Summit in Belgrade, last year we launched a second edition with a strong focus on infrastructure, energy – particularly green hydrogen –and innovative technologies in which the UK is recognised as a global leader. Together with the British Embassy and the UK Department for Business and Trade, these summits demonstrate the Chamber’s role in creating direct platforms for dialogue, connecting businesses and helping them to turn sector opportunities into sustainable partnerships.
We are also delighted to highlight the agribusiness sector, which is very close to our heart. In 2023, we worked with UK food experts to produce a practical guide on how to export from the Western Balkans to the UK, a valuable tool for regional producers looking to access the sophisticated UK market. Alongside this, the BSCC, together with
the Vojvodina Chamber of Commerce, has for several years taken part in the largest food and beverage fair in London, helping Serbian producers connect with British buyers. At the same time, we have supported UK exporters by bringing British sparkling wines and spirits to exhibit at the region’s largest wine fair, Wine Vision. These initiatives showcase our commitment to building genuine two-way bridges: opening doors for Serbian producers in the UK, while bringing high-quality British products to Serbia and the wider region.
How does the BSCC support cooperation with academic and technological institutions, such as the recently signed memorandum with NTP Novi Sad and the collaboration with the University of Cambridge?
— The implications of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and of AI in particular, are emerging rapidly, albeit under a veil of uncertainty. What is certain is that these rapid technological changes will affect almost all industrial sectors in every nation. Indeed, our Chairman, Lord Ranger, is a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on AI in the UK House of Lords.
In Serbia we are rightly proud of our research in STEM disciplines,
much of which is world-class. The data suggest, however, that we are less successful in translating scientific discoveries into successful innovation-driven enterprises. It is for this reason that we arranged for Serbia to participate in the Innovation Policy Ignition Programme (IPIP) in partnership with Hughes Hall College, University of Cambridge. Cambridge is Europe’s leading innovation ecosystem, and we have learned valuable lessons there that also apply to Serbia. The programme begins in September 2025.
How do you see the role of young and educated professionals in shaping future UK–Serbia relations? How does the BSCC support these talents?
— Pick any combination of the following: instrumental, pivotal, vital, crucial, inspirational… The young are our future leaders, and they will have to face challenges we have yet to imagine, chosen to ignore or even deliberately created in the past. Serbia is better equipped to cope with these challenges – and to exploit the resulting opportunities – than many might assume. Our young people are well educated, highly motivated and possess the freedom of thought required for innovation.
The BSCC actively supports and mentors Serbian students applying for Chevening scholarships in the UK and for PEXIM Foundation scholarships at the University of Cambridge. We also maintain a close working relationship with the Cambridge Trust.
What are the key challenges faced by British companies and investors when entering the Serbian market, and how does the Chamber work to overcome them?
— British companies and investors who enter the Serbian market and contract with Serbian businesses face very few challenges. Our members report an almost universally positive experience. English is widely spoken – and hvala is easy to learn!
Photo by Maximilian Ge
UK & Serbia Business Perspectives
Go Britain, Go Serbia
Mark Harrison Founder & Principal, Harrisons
Harrisons is the first and only English law firm in Serbia, building bridges between the British and Serbian business communities for more than two decades. With deep expertise in privatisations, foreign investments and the development of new sectors, the firm has become a trusted partner of the local economy
Since opening its Belgrade office in 1999, Harrisons has witnessed Serbia’s path from transition and privatisation to positioning itself in the digital era. Mark Harrison, Founder and Principal of the firm, believes that Serbia is a safe and attractive destination for British investors – a country of educated people, exceptional IT talent and vast potential in agriculture and energy. His message is clear: once you arrive in Belgrade, you will quickly discov-
er that Serbia offers far more than perceptions abroad may suggest.
ONLY ENGLISH LAW FIRM
Clearly an English Law Firm is subject to strict standards and we have always been registered with the Law Society of England and Wales and subsequently the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). Each year in October I have to renew my practising certificate and this will be my 44th!
International clients value the integrity which the SRA instils in our operations. Un-
As the first and only English Law Firm with an office in Belgrade it is a good time to look back at the British/Serbian relations since 2001 when democracy was restored in Serbia. Having opened our office in December 1999 we were in a great position to help Serbia in particular with the wave of privatisations and foreign investments.
like Serbian Law Firms we are not self-regulated. The SRA is completely independent and rigorous in enforcing strict standards of legal practice: Confidentiality, Conflict Checks, Know Your Client, Anti-Money Laundering, Lloyd’s of London Professional Indemnity Insurance, Complaints Procedures.
WHY SERBIA FOR BUSINESS?
I think the biggest British investment to date has been British American Tobacco buying Duvanska Industrija Vranje in September 2003. It was good to see a big investment from Britain at such an early stage.
As an English Law Firm, we constantly try and promote Serbia to British businesses. I switch my sales pitch tape on as follows:
“Serbia is the most literate English-speaking country in Central and Eastern Europe. Yugoslavia (as was) was outside the Iron Curtain. Yugoslavia was a free wealthy communist country not aligned to the West or Russia. In the late 1980s families would travel to Trieste in Italy to buy clothes and shoes. A Yugoslav passport was as good as a British one. Their standard of living was very good, way above neighbouring countries. It is very important to note that Serbs are very well-educated, intelligent people. The late H.R.H. Queen Elizabeth II visited Tito on his luxurious Blue Train.
After the ‘bad years from 1990 to 1999’ Serbia wants to regain its place as a leading country. It yearns to be a top destination. As a firm we noticed the excellent IT sector with young, bright, IT technicians about 10 years ago. So, we focused on helping them. They knew software inside out but not business. So, we acted for the inventors, found business angels, investment funds and protected them. We charged cheaper law fees as we saw them as the future of Serbia and now Serbia is the IT capital of Central & Eastern Europe.
Also, having lived in the UK, and in particular London, I advise industry leaders that Serbia is ten times safer than London. There is no culture of drunkenness. There is respect. They keep an eye on children. I would not feel happy allowing any female member of my family out late at night in most UK towns, but in Serbia I have never seen problems. The Serbian Police actually came round and kindly requested I locked my doors at night! I saw no need. Living
here is fun, and Serbs are friendly people. They like the British!
The factor I have to overcome is the perception people have of Serbia. Every time I return to the UK people ask, ‘Is it safe? What’s it like now?’.
I say I have lived here 27 years, so the proof is in the pudding. I’m from Yorkshire and we appreciate friendly, honest, plain-speaking people. I love living in Serbia and the vibrant restaurant scene. I’m afraid I’m too old for 6am clubs now, although my kids love coming back here.
Basically, Serbia is safe, fun, ambitious and all foreigners love the experience. I was told that of all the places in the world, Serbia is the second choice for British diplomats wanting to return. Many stay and get married.
My message: Get yourself over to Belgrade. That is 90% of the job done. Immediately British people say, ‘Wow this is not what I thought it would be like at all!’. I love hearing that. Then it is only a question of whether their business fits. The location has been decided.
GROWING AREAS OF BUSINESS ACTIVITY
I’m often asked what are the growing areas to focus on. OK:
• Agriculture – Less than 10% of all agricultural land is irrigated. Traditions are old-fashioned. We have helped one country become the second largest owner of agricultural land. Being a Yorkshireman I am surrounded by farmland. Serbia is the food basket of Europe. Adopting Western standards to food and livestock production will bring rewards. This means a lot to me.
• IT – As stated above Serbs are brilliant software and computer engineers. They are also one of the world’s top countries for mathematics. We brought an American company here about 10 years ago. I must admit they wanted to invest in the UK (!) but I convinced them otherwise. They were amazed at the local talent and soon had 500 people working for them and their employees were so happy. This also meant so much to me. I hated the brain drain in the 1990s of young talent to overseas. Now my mission is to make them want to stay here, earn good wages and help Serbia flourish.
• Renewable Energy – We have worked on many windfarms in the region. Solar electricity as well. Hydropower. Serbia knows it must ultimately stop carbon power.
• Mineral Resources – Maybe contentious, but if undertaken with environmental protection as the top priority, Serbia has an abundance of raw materials.
• Capital Markets – As the financial law firm for Serbia we are constantly trying to open up new opportunities to invest with the help of people like EBRD. I understand a certain reluctance to use new financial tools, but the City of London is the best in the world and Britain can help very much in progressing the maturity of the financial sector.
SUMMARY
Harrisons has been here for over 25 years. Serbia is a great place to invest and do business. It is a lovely country to live and work in. Every day there is a two and a half hour flight from Heathrow to Belgrade. Book a flight, look around, feel the pulse and invest or trade. We look forward to welcoming you. Go Britain, Go Serbia!
A Bridge between Science and Business
Srđan Kolaković Director, STP Novi Sad
Novi Sad Science and Technology Park is steadily strengthening its position as a hub that connects research, innovation and business with international partners. Recently signed agreements with the British-Serbian Chamber of Commerce and the University of Cambridge mark an important step towards global visibility
TP Novi Sad has in recent years been recognised as one of the driving forces of Serbia’s innovation ecosystem. Strategic partnerships are opening access to the UK’s most advanced expertise and practices, laying the foundations for long-term competitiveness on international markets.
SHow do the memoranda of cooperation with the British-Serbian Chamber of Commerce and the University of Cambridge enhance STP Novi Sad’s capacity and provide an opportunity for international positioning?
— These agreements establish the basis for future joint projects and confirm what STP Novi Sad has long been building – connecting science, innovation and industry with international partners. Of particular importance is the recognition of the Park’s role as a bridge to British institutions, companies and universities. A concrete step arising from this cooperation is STP Novi Sad’s inclusion in the University of Cambridge’s Innovation Policy Ignition Programme, which will provide access to world-class research and best practices from the Cambridge innovation ecosystem, adapted to the regional context. This collaboration also opens valuable insight into UK market needs and trends, especially in artificial intelligence, fintech, biotechnology, cleantech and the creative industries, where our start-ups are already achieving strong results.
Which sectors do you see as the most promising for commercial cooperation between Serbian and British companies, and how does STP Novi Sad support startups and technology firms in this process?
— The greatest potential lies in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, agritech, medtech and IT. Experience also shows that such partnerships often create opportunities in other fields. In this process, STP Novi Sad acts as a facilitator – providing members with access to state-of-the-art laboratories, mentoring, international networks of partners and investors, as well as support in business development, marketing and intellectual property protection. Results are already visible: in the past three years, six start-ups have grown into companies employing dozens of engineers and delivering products to global markets.
How do international partnerships and cooperation with global investors help attract capital, new technologies and highly qualified professionals into Serbia’s technology ecosystem?
— The arrival of global companies such as Continental, ZF, NIDEC and Schneider Electric demonstrates that Serbia and Vojvodina are becoming attractive destinations for high-tech investment. Building on these foundations, and with the expertise of engineers from the Faculty of Technical Sciences, STP Novi Sad was created to connect global investors, local companies, start-ups and the academic community. Such synergy enables the transfer of capital, technologies and highly qualified personnel into the domestic economy, making the Park an attractive global partner and strengthening the competitiveness of its members on international markets.
TA Reliable Guide to Digital Transformation
Zoran Tovarloža, CEO & Co-Founder, and Nikola Gorjanac, CTO & Co-Founder, Bee IT
Expertise, multidisciplinary teams and predictable delivery distinguish the company on the global market. Their solutions are flexible, secure and tailored to clients’ needs, providing a strategic advantage in an era of rapid digitalisationy
oday they are a strategic partner for digital transformation projects worldwide. By combining expertise, agility and high security standards, they have positioned themselves as a trusted ally for the development of both the public and private sectors.
Who is Bee IT today and what sets you apart in a market where all IT companies are striving for leadership?
— Bee IT today serves as a strategic partner for clients’ digital transformation worldwide. What sets us apart? Expertise and multidisciplinary teams, swift and predictable delivery – because time is the most valuable resource –and solutions that represent not only functionality, but also a strategic advantage. Our solutions are modular, flexible and scalable, with data security established as standard through encryption, advanced access controls and full compliance with GDPR and ISO norms. Bee IT is a visionary company that combines expertise, agility, customised solutions and security, positioning itself as the reliable partner in digital transformation.
Your portfolio covers everything from global eCommerce platforms to specialised software. What criteria guide your choice of technology for a client?
— We have elevated technology selection and project management to an art form. We ap-
The region offers major advantages, with little competition, a skilled and adaptable workforce, and companies still in the early stages of digitalisation – making
support particularly valuable
proach projects in a multidisciplinary way, considering several factors: 1) Scope and goals: If the client is a large company with multi-million turnover and numerous systems requiring integration, Salesforce Commerce Cloud and Magento are the right choice. These powerful platforms enable the most complex inte-
grations. For small and mid-sized enterprises in the early or growth stages of eCommerce, Shopify is ideal. It is straightforward and allows an online store to be launched in record time. 2) Budget and timeframe: a Shopify store can be launched within weeks and is affordable for companies with limited budgets. Projects on Salesforce Commerce Cloud or Magento require more time and financial resources, given their complexity in terms of staffing and technology. Bespoke solutions: when standard technologies cannot meet specific requirements, we create tailor-made solutions. We have developed complex systems for ticketing, digital content distribution and asset management, as well as FeedbackHero, software for employee development management.
Digital transformation requires time, resources and patience. How do you help companies see this process as an investment in the future rather than merely a technical challenge?
— As Salesforce partners, we provide not only tools but also deep expertise and an understanding of how those tools align with each client’s business model. Our expertise goes far beyond implementation: we create complete omnichannel strategies. The full potential of the Salesforce ecosystem lies in advanced CRM, marketing, loyalty and communication solutions. The digital transformation we deliver is only partly about IT – new technologies also bring new organisational challenges. Our partnership approach includes workshops and training sessions, explaining the context of change management and introducing new systems to all teams – from management and marketing to sales and logistics.
Luxury with a Montenegrin Signature
Aleksandra Drašković Founder and CEO, Montenegro Properties
Montenegro Properties has set new standards and redefined the luxury real estate market in Montenegro. From innovative sales and marketing approaches to anticipating the expectations of the most discerning buyers, the agency today stands as a synonym for prestige, quality and trust at the international level
In this issue, we spoke with Aleksandra Drašković, founder and CEO of Montenegro Properties, about what sets Montenegro apart in the global market, the new concepts shaping luxury residences, and the added values that international buyers now expect. As she points out, today’s buyers are no longer satisfied with mere square footage or sea views; they aspire to a complete luxury experience that goes beyond size and location.
Montenegro’s luxury real estate market has become increasingly attractive to international investors. What makes the country stand out from the competition? — Montenegro offers a rare combination of lifestyle and relative affordability compared to saturated markets such as Monaco or the Côte d’Azur. Prime properties here still have room for growth, while resorts like Porto Montenegro, Luštica Bay and Portonovi provide a quality of product not yet matched elsewhere in the region.
Buyers are drawn to unspoiled landscapes and UNESCO-protected towns like Kotor, but also to modern, fully serviced resorts. Another key advantage is that transactions are conducted in euros, which ensures price transparency and stability for international clients. Add to this improved air connec-
tivity, favourable taxation and the country’s progress towards EU membership, and Montenegro emerges as a destination of longterm value.
Which innovations and concepts are shaping the luxury residential offer in Montenegro?
— The market is aligning with global trends. Architecture increasingly combines Mediterranean style with eco-friendly solutions – energy efficiency, integration with nature and sustainable construction. Resorts such as Luštica Bay and Portonovi embody this approach, building not only homes but entire self-sustaining communities.
According to the Knight Frank Wealth Report 2025, while other luxury goods are experiencing a slowdown, the branded residences sector is expected to record an average annual growth of 12%. This clearly shows that real estate tied to lifestyle, exclusivity and global brands is becoming one of the most resilient and attractive asset classes.
Equally important is the concept of lifestyle residences. Buyers today want more than just square metres or sea views – they expect concierge services, spa and wellness facilities, marinas, golf courses and cultural content, all within one resort. The presence of global brands such as One&Only, The Chedi, and soon Mandarin Oriental and Four Seasons, adds credibility and value, reassuring buyers that international standards are guaranteed.
What additional values and experiences are now decisive when purchasing a luxury property?
— Lifestyle is key. Buyers seek destinations that combine privacy, security and w orld-class services. Branded residences deliver exactly that, providing a consistent level of quality equal to prestigious hotels.
Sustainability and wellbeing are also decisive factors. Post-pandemic, health and balance have become priorities, so energy efficiency, green design and spaces created for natural light and wellness are now essential. Technology, too, plays a role –smart homes, integrated apps and flexible layouts that can serve both as family residences and second-home offices.
Above all, luxury is increasingly measured by emotion and authenticity. Buyers want to feel connected with a place through its culture, gastronomy and natural beauty. Montenegro’s unique mix of untouched nature and high-end amenities offers precisely that – an experience both intimate and luxurious.
luxurious 2-bedroom Botanika apartment with panoramic Adriatic and golf-course views, bespoke Miele kitchen, wrap-around balcony, and exclusive access to pool and Guvno in Montenegro’s most sophisticated Mediterranean community.
Apartment in Luštica Bay complex, 105.68 m2 two-bedroom, price: €859,000.
Serbia’s Potential, Unlocked Responsibly
Chad Blewitt Managing Director of Rio Tinto’s Jadar Project
The Jadar deposit offers the EU a strategic supply for green technologies and gives Serbia a historic chance to join the critical raw materials chain, attract major investment, and anchor its role in the continent’s green transition
When the Jadar Project was added to the EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) list, it was widely regarded as a potential catalyst for faster progress. The designation underscored Jadar’s importance for Europe’s green transition, signalling its strategic value as a major source of lithium and borates.
Nonetheless – and indeed all the more so in light of the EU’s decision – the project must be developed under strict standards and in full alignment with Serbia’s legal framework. We spoke with Chad Blewitt, Managing Director of Rio Tinto’s Jadar Project, about the current stage of the project and the steps the company is taking to ensure compliance and move forward responsibly.
From your perspective, how would you define the current stage of the project?
— The inclusion of the Jadar Project on the EU’s list of strategic projects is a significant
recognition of its importance. The designation followed a rigorous assessment by independent experts, who evaluated Jadar’s potential to contribute to Europe’s green and digital transition, its technical and economic feasibility, and its compliance with strict environmental and social standards, while also assessing its potential to contribute to Serbia’s economic development. This highlights Serbia’s potential role as a key partner in building a secure and sustainable European battery value chain.
While this EU recognition strengthens investor confidence and underscores the project’s
strategic importance, the pathway forward remains firmly anchored in Serbia’s regulatory framework and in earning the trust of the Serbian people through facts and science. The project is therefore at a stage of careful preparation, patient regulatory engagement, and ongoing dialogue with stakeholders.
What are the next steps Rio Tinto is preparing for, and how would you assess the level of engagement and support the company is currently receiving from relevant Serbian institutions and other key stakeholders?
Our immediate priority is the Ministry’s decision on the EIA scope, after which we will complete a detailed study demonstrating how the project can advance safely while protecting the environment, biodiversity, and public health
— Our immediate priority is the final decision from the Serbian Ministry of Environmental Protection on the scope of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). Once defined, we will complete the EIA Study – a comprehensive, data-driven document that will extend to thousands of pages, setting out in detail how the project could be developed safely, while protecting the local environment, biodiversity, and public health.
The study will undergo official review and, crucially, form the basis for broad public consultation, enabling institutions, experts, NGOs, and citizens to examine the data, raise questions, and provide input. In parallel, we continue to maintain regular dialogue with the local community. Over the last two years, we have organised more than 180 public meetings in the Loznica region, while our Information Centre in the heart of Loznica provides a daily point of contact for citizens. Through these efforts, we aim to listen carefully, address concerns, and counter misinformation with transparent, fact-based communication.
There is broad agreement that Serbia holds significant potential in the mining sector, yet expert opinions and wider public views differ. Given the possibilities and limitations of ‘green’ mining, what do you see as the best way to unlock Serbia’s mining potential sustainably? — The opportunity for Serbia lies in redefining what mining means in the 21st century. It is no longer about extraction alone, but about responsible partnership for national development. Unlocking Serbia’s potential sustainably requires two commitments: full adherence to the highest global standards and a determination to create lasting, shared value for the nation.
At Jadar, modern technologies are designed to ensure continuous water recycling within the process, underground tunnel backfilling that reduces surface waste, and advanced systems for biodiversity protection and real-time environmental monitoring, often with community involvement. The aim is for the mine to operate with minimal impact and, in the long term, for the land to be restored to sustainable use.
Equally important, Jadar is being developed to be socially responsible – based on
Jadar has the potential to show that 21st-century mining, done responsibly, can create enduring value for Serbia’s environment and economy
transparency, respect for human rights, and benefits that go beyond jobs, including local infrastructure and skills development. In this way, Jadar can serve as proof that modern 21st-century mining, when carried out responsibly, can bring lasting value to both Serbia’s environment and its economy.
Looking at the strong societal divisions in Serbia today regarding lithium mining, is there anything you believe Rio Tinto should have done differently to better engage with and address public concerns?
— It is not easy to answer that question from today’s perspective. As a responsible company, we first look inward and examine what we may not have done well enough, so that we can learn from it. I believe we were partly caught off guard by the sheer scale of disinformation, and particularly by
the fact that some members of the expert community participated in spreading it. False narratives about so-called acid rain, poisoned rivers, or a “destroyed web of life” may seem implausible to professionals in this field, yet they still managed to gain traction. Going forward, we are committed to deeper engagement: reaching out more broadly, listening actively, and adapting our approaches. We invite all stakeholders, including those who oppose us, to join a dialogue grounded in evidence.
Ultimately, our commitment is to demonstrate, through independent scientific review, that Jadar can meet both Serbian and EU safety and sustainability standards, thereby building the trust essential for moving ahead.
From your perspective, given the EU’s current priorities and its own lithium projects, does Serbia’s proximity and potential still carry significant weight?
— Global demand for lithium for electric vehicles and electricity grid storage is so vast that no single source of lithium or other critical minerals will ever be sufficient. This is why most countries are now striving to develop their own critical mineral resources and publishing national strategies in this regard.
A diversified and resilient supply chain is essential to enable the energy transition. While the EU is developing its own lithium projects, the reality is that domestic capacity alone cannot meet the needs of the green transition. Europe will continue to require complementary, reliable partners.
In this context, Serbia has unique advantages. It is not simply “near-shore” but part of Europe itself, reducing logistical risks, transportation emissions, and supply chain complexity compared to more distant sources. Moreover, the Jadar deposit is not only one of the largest lithium resources in Europe, but also a multi-critical mineral deposit containing both lithium and borates.
For the EU, Serbian lithium could provide a stable, nearby supply to power electric mobility, renewable energy, and energy storage – all pillars of the European Green Deal. For Serbia, it represents a historic opportunity to integrate into Europe’s critical raw materials chain, attract billions in investment, and play a central role in the continent’s green transition.
Driving Sustainable Change
Nada Begenišić MScEE & MBA, Founder and CEO of Igmako Smart Solutions
Igmako Smart Solutions develops and implements advanced technologies and critical communication systems which, in the context of international harmonisation and interoperability, help organisations adapt to the requirements of a sustainable and digitally connected future. Through strategic growth, international partnerships and a strong focus on ESG principles, the company is shaping the course of industrial development across the region
n this issue, we spoke with Nada Begenišić, MScEE & MBA, Founder and CEO of Igmako Smart Solutions, about the company’s strategic direction, its alignment with European initiatives and the values that underpin its operations. She emphasises the importance of innovation, integrity and diversity as the cornerstones of success, while also calling for openness to learning and readiness to adapt in an era of rapid technological change.
IHow would you describe Igmako Smart Solutions?
— Igmako Smart Solutions is dedicated to developing advanced technologies and critical communication systems that support organisations in their transition towards a sustainable future.
We build our market advantage on a unique position and long-standing partnerships with leading global companies. Combined with a highly qualified team with extensive international experience, we are committed to providing outstanding service to our clients. In addition, we draw on our expertise in regional expansion and
strategic acquisitions to further strengthen our capabilities.
Our strategy, portfolio and network of partners are fully aligned with European Union initiatives, such as the Green Deal and the Trans-European Networks (TEN-T). These programmes aim to integrate and modernise infrastructure in the fields of transport, energy and telecommunications, while ensuring compliance with key regulations such as the NIS2 Directive and the Cyber Resilience Act.
What do you consider the key to the company’s success?
— Our ambition is for Igmako Smart Solutions to be among the leaders in developing new technologies that enable organisations to grow in line with the principles of sustainability and digital connectivity. Committed to excellence and integrity, we are expanding our regional presence through strategic initiatives with the aim of contributing to lasting change and the advancement of the industries in which we operate – for the benefit of a more sustainable, resilient and interconnected society.
We also believe that fostering diversity and excellence in execution broadens our perspective and further strengthens our commitment to aligning with Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles.
What final message would you like to convey?
— The power to transform lies within each of us, grounded in our unique talents, experiences and perspectives. This inner strength empowers us to bring about meaningful change in society, enabling us to face uncertainty and to see how new technologies can shape a brighter future.
As we step into this ever-changing environment, it is essential to remain open-minded and ready to learn, adapting to new tools and methodologies that can drive growth. I encourage everyone to embrace the era of new technologies with confidence, knowing that Igmako will remain a reliable partner along the way.
20 Years Bridging UK and Western Balkans
Ferry Agent has become synonymous with responsibility, safety and trust. More than 300 clients rely daily on its direct transport services between the United Kingdom and the Western Balkans
For two decades, Ferry Agent has stood as a symbol of reliability and professionalism in transport and logistics. The company began with a single consolidated truck and the first direct departure from London. Today, it operates daily direct lines connecting the United Kingdom with the countries of the Western Balkans. Over 20 years of business, Ferry Agent has continuously upgraded its services, introduced innovations, and expanded its client network, becoming a key partner in transport and logistics.
Its commitment and vision enabled Ferry Agent to be the first to open a direct consolidated line between London and Serbia, and it now provides complete logistics solutions across the entire region.
From the total goods exchange between the United Kingdom and Serbia, Ferry Agent accounts for close to 70% of transport capacity. More than half of all consignments are handled through its service, an impres-
sive achievement that confirms its leading position.
With a team of just 13 employees, Ferry Agent delivers extraordinary results that exceed expectations. The company records an annual turnover of nearly €7 million, with continuous growth of between 3% and 7% each year – a clear indicator of stability and success. Daily direct departures and
20 years of experience, a team of 13 experts, more than 300 clients and daily direct transport – Ferry Agent is your bridge between the United Kingdom and the Western Balkans, guaranteeing safety, reliability and accountability every step of the way
flexible logistics solutions enable the transport of all types of goods, from automotive components to foodstuffs, technology and industrial products. Ferry Agent is leader in transport between United Kingdom and the Western Balkan, proving that quality and dedication outweigh the size of the workforce.
Shipment safety remains a top priority. Every consignment is insured with an AllRisk policy at full invoice value, exceeding standard insurance limits and providing clients with complete protection. This principle of responsibility means that Ferry Agent assumes full accountability for goods in transit, building long-term trust and cementing its reputation as a reliable and secure partner. Ferry Agent cooperates with more than 300 renowned clients, including Carlsberg, Air Serbia, SIKA, Peri Oplate, Aunde Jagodina, Leoni Prokuplje, Agena Technology, Hafele, Biospringer, Albon, Roma Company, ATB FOD and Irkom Valjevo. Each partnership reflects the company’s professionalism, reliability and expertise, as well as its ability to respond to the most demanding logistics challenges.
Serbia’s Voice in Global Restructuring
Ivana Matić
President of TMA Serbia, Member of the TMA Global Board of Trustees and Founder of IM Consulting Belgrade
Restructuring today is one of the key themes of the modern economy. While many still equate it with “saving companies on the brink of bankruptcy”, its essence is much broader – it is a strategic process of strengthening enterprises, redefining business models, and ensuring sustainable growth. It is in this field that Ivana Matić has built her career and reputation as one of the region’s foremost expert
s the founder and director of IM Consulting Belgrade, and through her work with the Turnaround Management Association (TMA) – the global network of restructuring and insolvency professionals – Ivana is recognised as Serbia’s authentic voice in the international community. Her leadership roles, including her presidency of TMA Serbia and membership of the TMA Global Board of Trustees (2024), attest to her international standing and professional vision.
AHer biography spans more than a decade of activity in both domestic and international contexts – from chairing the Examination
Commission of the Serbian Bankruptcy Supervisory Agency, to serving on the Ministry of Economy’s working group on amendments to the Bankruptcy Law, to leading TMA in the region. As recognition for her contribution, Ivana in 2022 became the first woman outside the United States to receive the prestigious TMA Individual Excellence Award, proving that expertise and dedication transcend borders.
Today, as global crises and rapid shifts demand flexibility and innovation, restructuring is becoming an indispensable part of economic development. Thanks to its solid legal framework and professional capaci-
ty, Serbia has built a reputation as a country capable of delivering solutions on a par with the world’s best practices. Ivana Matić is convinced that the time has come for restructuring in Serbia to be seen as a tool of transformation, not merely as a mechanism for rescuing troubled companies.
Restructuring is often associated with crises and bankruptcies. How do you define restructuring in the contemporary context of the global economy?
— Restructuring is much more than addressing the aftermath of a crisis. It is a strategic process of transformation – from
adapting business models to new market conditions, through redefining capital and organisational structures, to creating a sustainable framework for long-term growth. Viewed this way, restructuring becomes a driver of innovation rather than merely a lifeline. On the global stage, it is a discipline that enables companies to create new value out of turmoil.
The world is undergoing rapid cycles of change – from geopolitical risks to climate challenges and the AI revolution. Where do you see the role of restructuring in such a context?
— The role of restructuring is to provide a framework of resilience. Companies that rely solely on short-term gains cannot survive in a world where challenges come from multiple directions at once. Restructuring introduces the discipline of strategic foresight – integrating ESG standards, digital technologies
We are already seeing how disciplines such as ESG, digital transformation and AI are being integrated into restructuring – making it an interdisciplinary field. In the next decade, the most successful companies will be those that embed restructuring into their DNA
and new business models. In other words, it is the bridge between the traditional economy and the economy of the future.
Critics sometimes say that restructuring is an “elite sport” reserved for large multinational corporations. Can it truly be a driver of growth in smaller economies such as Serbia’s?
— Absolutely. It is precisely in smaller economies that restructuring demonstrates its full value. When you do not have the luxury of vast capital or large markets, you m ust be agile. Serbia is an example of a market where knowledge, flexibility and readiness to adapt are key factors of success. In such an environment, restructuring becomes a tool for preserving jobs, attracting investment and strengthening competitiveness.
You are part of the global TMA community and a member of its highest gov -
erning body. What does that perspective bring to the Serbian market?
— Serving on the TMA Global Board of Trustees gives me the privilege of sitting at the same table as leading experts from the United States, Europe and Asia. It means access to the latest knowledge, methodologies and trends. My task is to translate that experience to our own context and show that smaller countries also have experts who contribute to global solutions. In this way, Serbia positions itself not as an isolated market, but as part of the international network.
You are the first woman outside the United States to receive the prestigious TMA Individual Excellence Award. How has this recognition influenced your career?
— That award was a turning point. It was not only recognition of my work, but also a message that knowledge has no geographic boundaries. As the first woman outside the United States to receive this honour, I felt
a great responsibility – not only to my profession, but also to all young people in Serbia and the region who believe that their knowledge can compete globally. For me, it is a commitment to continue inspiring and building bridges to the world.
How do you see the future of restructuring over the next decade?
— I believe restructuring will shed its stigma and become synonymous with transformation. Companies will use it preventively, as part of their strategy, rather than as a last resort. We are already seeing how disciplines such as ESG, digital transformation and AI are being integrated into restructuring – making it an interdisciplinary field. In the next decade, the most successful companies will be those that embed restructuring into their DNA.
What is your message to the Serbian business community and the wider region?
— The message is simple – do not fear change. Restructuring is not a sign of weakness, but of courage. Courage to admit that what worked yesterday may not work tomorrow, and that a new vision is needed. Serbia has the knowledge, the people and the legal framework to be a leader in this process in the region. It is up to us to turn that potential into long-term competitiveness.
A Partnership That Changes the Rules of the Game
MaxBet and Flutter International
The entry of MaxBet into the global Flutter International family at the beginning of 2025 marks an important step forward and a turning point, not only for this company, but also for the entire regional gaming sector. This acquisition represents far more than a change in ownership structure – it stands as a confirmation of trust in local expertise, team strength and the potential of the Southeast European market
lutter International forms part of the Flutter Entertainment group, one of the world’s largest operators in the entertainment and gaming industry, active in over 100 markets worldwide. Its portfolio includes globally recognised brands such as PokerStars, Betfair International, Sisal and Adjarabet. Through its partnership with MaxBet, Flutter has consolidated its presence in the Balkans and opened the door to further growth across the region.
FWhat makes this alliance distinctive is the mutual trust it embodies. Flutter was not merely seeking market share – it sought a partner that understands the local context, with experience, stability and a clear strategic vision. It found precisely that in MaxBet – a company with more than three decades of experience, a presence in Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina and North Macedonia, and a workforce of 2,700 people.
MaxBet is a leader that has always believed in the power of people, in the importance of community and in responsible business practices. Over the years, the company has invested in digital infrastructure, team training and product development to shape an offering tailored to customers –while also responding to the broader social context in which it operates.
“Flutter was not merely seeking market share –it sought a partner that understands the local context, with experience, stability and a clear strategic vision”
A significant element of MaxBet’s strategy in recent years has been a strong focus on responsible gaming. Through the “Responsible Play” campaign, educational content and innovative self-regulation tools – such as
deposit limits, time restrictions and personalised notifications – the company actively raises the standards of safe and transparent play. This approach, aligned with Flutter’s global principles of responsibility, demonstrates how the entertainment industry can operate with a high degree of ethics and care for its users.
For MaxBet, collaboration with Flutter does not mean a loss of identity. On the contrary – it is an opportunity to further strengthen local authenticity. The company retains its teams, management and culture, but now with access to cutting-edge technologies, global knowhow and additional resources for accelerated development. Customers, innovation and sustainable business practices that bring value to employees, partners and communities alike remain firmly at the heart of operations.
MaxBet’s entry into the Flutter family represents more than the success of a single brand – it symbolises trust in the region. It shows that domestic companies are capable of meeting the highest global standards when they have a clear vision, a strong team and a commitment to ethical growth. At a time when the gaming industry is rapidly evolving, the MaxBet–Flutter partnership becomes an example of cooperation measured not only in numbers, but in enduring values.
Architecture Changing World for a
Contemporary architecture is no longer merely about building spaces – it is about creating environments that foster wellbeing, balance and sustainability. From global metropolises to regional urban centres, design increasingly seeks to merge art with function, technology with ecology, and private comfort with public responsibilit.
The 21st century has brought a transformation in the way we understand and inhabit space. Architecture is evolving from static form into a dynamic process: one that responds to shifting lifestyles, environmental imperatives and technological advances. Today’s buildings are expected to do far more than provide shelter or aesthetic pleasure. They are tasked with integrating sustainability, flexibility and human-centred design into their very core.
This shift is evident in several key trends shaping the industry. One of the strongest is the rise of sustainable architecture. Once considered a niche, sustainability is now a baseline expectation. Investors and communities alike demand buildings that minimise energy use, employ local or recycled materials, and reduce carbon footprints. Yet beyond efficiency, the focus is
also on resilience: creating structures that can adapt to climate challenges and stand the test of time.
Parallel to this is the redefinition of functionality. As work, leisure and domestic life increasingly overlap, multi-purpose and hybrid spaces are in demand. Homes that double as offices, public buildings that encourage community interaction, and commercial spaces that merge retail with cultural content are examples of this trend. The key is flexibility – ensuring that spaces evolve alongside the people who use them.
Another important current is the integration of digital technologies. Smart building systems, advanced modelling tools and data-driven design approaches are transforming the profession. Digital twins, AI-powered simulations and real-time monitoring enable architects and engineers to predict energy consumption, user behaviour and maintenance needs before a building is even completed. Far from diminishing creativity, technology is becoming a partner in producing more imaginative, sustainable and human-centred environments.
At the same time, architects are returning to craft and local context. The globalisation of style has reached its limits, and
there is renewed appreciation for authentic, place-sensitive design. This is reflected in the use of local materials, the preservation of cultural heritage, and the adaptation of traditional forms for contemporary needs. Such an approach not only enriches aesthetic diversity but also strengthens social identity and pride.
Underlying all these trends is a deeper philosophical question: what is the purpose of architecture today? Increasingly, the answer points towards quality of life. The built environment profoundly shapes how we feel, work and relate to one another. Spaces that promote wellbeing – through natural light, open layouts, access to greenery and a sense of safety – contribute directly to healthier, more cohesive communities. As the industry continues to evolve, one principle remains constant: architecture cannot be separated from responsibility. Every project leaves a footprint – ecological, cultural and social. By acknowledging this and striving for balance between technology and nature, efficiency and beauty, private interest and public good, contemporary architecture demonstrates that design is not an accessory to life but a vital component of how we live it.
Balance with Nature is Essential
Veljko Mladenović, CEO, Svetlana Mladenović Lead Arcitect, ArhiM
The creative team at ArhiM – engineers with extensive experience in preparing project documentation, from conceptual designs and planning through to parcelling and interior projects – connects the wishes and needs of clients with possibilities and limitations, filtering them through the prism of their vision and imprinting them with their own authorship
e strive to design for each client a well-balanced, skilfully organised, comfortable, purposeful and safe space that reflects their needs, say our interlocutors, emphasising that such results can only be achieved through a relationship built on trust.
WAt ArhiM you are engineers with rich experience in preparing project documentation, but at the same time artists and visionaries, aren’t you?
— Our profession is complex. One must take care of all aspects simultaneously. You have to be practical and rational, while also imaginative and creative. Everything has to be in harmony, not in opposition. It may sound limiting, but it is not. We believe that quality spatial solutions are often the most beautiful ones. When you arrive at a good solution, you recognise it instantly. It feels as though it was always there, and it becomes undeniable. Art arises from skill. Every part of our work requires skill. While some elements are visible on the surface and easily appealing –as with interiors or façades – others demand equally as much creativity, though less obvious, such as in spatial organisation or urban planning. All of this is a kind of combinatorics, a puzzle to be solved. It is, in a way, a game. Yet art is not an end in itself. In our work, it must be placed in the service of quality living. Otherwise, it makes no sense.
How do you see the purpose of architecture?
— Above all, we connect the wishes and needs of the client with possibilities and limitations, passing them through the prism of our own vision and leaving our authorship upon them. To reach a good solution – and thereby meet the client’s needs – good communication is essential. It is always the key. And for good communication, trust is indispensable. It is as important and as delicate to earn as it is to maintain. That can only be achieved through dedicated work, honesty and professionalism.
Gradual development of an idea is a good approach, as it allows the client time to crystallise their standpoint and assess the proposed direction. With a clear project brief it is easy
to offer a strong solution, yet a project brief is often not possible to define at the outset. At times, it takes considerable skill to perceive what will satisfy all the criteria of professional ethics while also meeting the client’s needs – both those they are aware of and those they are not conscious of at the very beginning.
You often stress the importance of caring for the future of our planet, as there is no alternative. Do you believe you have found the balance between technological progress and sustainability, investor demands and community needs, trends and nature conservation?
— Balance with nature is essential. It is –and must remain – a trend in its own right. It should matter equally to everyone. Many of the manufacturers we cooperate with take special care with the sustainability of their products, yet the changes brought by the acceleration of life often outpace us. The response must be faster.
We strive to use local materials and domestic products as much as possible, though as a small country we cannot have answers to everything. So we expand our circles concentrically. It is essential to find materials produced without disturbing the natural balance and which, through their use, do not disrupt it further – and to do so with minimal transport involved.
Since not all of our projects are based domestically, we strive to apply the same principle everywhere. None of us has a spare planet, and no part of this whole will be spared if ecosystems are disrupted elsewhere. The responsibility lies with all of us.
Svetlana Mladenović and Veljko Mladenović
Being Free
The beauty of small things. And that ever-present concern of how best to use the most limited of resources – time. Memento mori as a reminder, Amor Vincit Omnia as a guide
How do you accept people and build relationships? I recently came across a thought that may explain many of today’s civilisational challenges. It sounds like a joke, yet it carries truth: we remain essentially Palaeolithic beings, living within institutions shaped in the Middle Ages, while equipped with tools of godlike power. Complex, indeed. Luckily, adaptability is also in our nature, helping us reconcile our primal impulses with the modern world.
So, what does it mean to be true to oneself? To me, it comes down to one vital quality: trust. One of my early employers, when I had about a decade of experience, entrusted me with the role of CEO, explaining that he chose me because he could entrust me with his wallet. At the time, it felt like a kind compliment.
Today I understand the magnitude of that trust far better. Everything I’ve done since – through demanding jobs, people and organisations –has been built upon trust: others’ in me, and mine in them.
Am I proud that, working for my country, I was directly responsible for privatisation processes that channelled nearly €3 billion into the budget? Or that I continue to work on challenging, responsible tasks that make a difference? Very much so. The link between personal values and professional ethics is what brings lasting success and genuine fulfilment.
I’ve had the privilege of choosing my profession – perhaps also the good fortune of working mostly with those who share my values. We found one another and stayed together through trust. Even today I cannot imagine
working outside that environment, despite contracts, clauses and guarantees. Earn, deserve and uphold trust –and you hold the most valuable currency of human relations.
From that flows another vital currency: freedom. Not compromising on moral principles painstakingly forged by our imperfect civilisation, even when they have not yet found their way into written law. Intelligence may offer excuses and shortcuts, yet Kant’s categorical imperative remains a compass for what we think and do.
I seek freedom beyond work too –in a hobby that chose me more than I chose it. I’ve spent over four decades on two wheels. Through motorcycles and travel I’ve met wonderful people, gained unforgettable experiences and seen landscapes from rare perspectives. Few things compare. Beyond freedom, fun and adventure, riding is increasingly shown to improve mental and physical wellbeing, alongside life skills: agility, responsiveness, anticipation, decision-making, problem-solving, risk management. Or perhaps that’s only social media confirming my beliefs?
Earn, deserve and uphold trust –and you hold the most valuable currency of human relations
At the centre, of course, remain family and friends. Then books. And that awareness that we will never share all our experiences with those dearest to us, nor fully absorb the countless gifts shared with us by others through art and creativity. Umberto Eco’s antilibrary and Taleb as philosophical guides. The beauty of small things. And the constant concern of how best to use limited time. Memento mori as reminder; Amor Vincit Omnia as guide.
And yes – this text was written without the help of large language models. Authenticity or anachronism – what do you think?
David Hockney returns to Belgrade more than five decades after his first exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art. His work – from vibrant paintings to radical digital experiments – continues to redefine the very act of looking
New Visions of Seeing
David Hockney
painter, draughtsman, printmaker, stage designer, and photographer
The Museum of Contemporary Art in Belgrade has just closed an exhibition dedicated to David Hockney, marking the institution’s 60th anniversary and rekindling a historic connection. Back in 1970, the young Hockney present-
Back in 1970, the young Hockney presented his first solo show in Belgrade, a gesture that foreshadowed his global reach and placed the museum at the forefront of presenting avant-garde art
ed his first solo show in Belgrade, a gesture that foreshadowed his global reach and placed the museum at the forefront of presenting avant-garde art. Now, over fifty years later,
Hockney returned symbolically –through a body of work that spans from paper to screen, from intimate drawings to immersive digital landscapes.
One of the most influential British artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, Hockney has never ceased to innovate. His iconic Californian swimming pools, bold portraits and revolutionary “joiner” photo collages defined entire chapters of post-war art, while his embrace of new technologies – from the iPhone and iPad to 3D photographic drawings – placed him at the centre of contemporary discourse. His art is always autobiographical, yet universal: whether capturing the shimmer of water, the passage of seasons in Yorkshire, or the intimacy of human relationships, Hockney insists on the power of seeing differently.
Born in Bradford, West Yorkshire, in 1937, Hockney studied at the Royal College of Art in London, where his talent and defiance of convention be came immediately apparent. His early admiration for Picasso and Matisse shaped his sense of colour and form, while his friendships with fellow artists, such as R.B. Kitaj, fuelled his exploration of pop art and personal identity. Moving to Los Angeles in the 1960s, Hockney found a city that matched his fascination with light, space and modern living. His swimming pool paintings from this period
Celebrated globally, Hockney has held more than 400 solo exhibitions and 500 group shows
remain among the most recognisable images of contemporary art, distilling a vision of freedom and sensuality at a time when both Britain and America were redefining cultural norms.
Hockney’s practice evolved restlessly. In the 1970s, he turned to
portraiture, producing celebrated double portraits of friends, lovers and patrons, before experimenting with photography and collage in ways that challenged traditional ideas of perspective and narrative. In the 1990s, he returned to painting with renewed vigour, creating large-scale Yorkshire landscapes that merged abstraction with observation. By the 2000s, his adoption of digital tools – first the fax machine, then the iPhone and iPad – made him a pioneer of the digital age in fine art.
Celebrated globally, Hockney has held more than 400 solo exhibitions and 500 group shows. His 2017 retrospective at Tate Britain became the most visited in the museum’s history, while Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Two Figures) sold at Christie’s for £70 million in 2018, setting a record for the most expensive work by a living artist. Yet beyond records and accolades, Hockney remains
By the 2000s, his adoption of digital tools – first the fax machine, then the iPhone and iPad – made him a pioneer of the digital age in fine art
committed to exploration, insisting that art must be a constant re-invention of vision.
The Belgrade exhibition not only celebrated his pioneering role in shap-
ing visual culture, but also reminded audiences of the museum’s own legacy of courage and openness. By revisiting the artist who once brought the world to Ušće, the Museum has reaffirmed its mission to connect local and international narratives of modernity. And Hockney, still prolific in his ninth decade, continues to invite us to look longer, deeper, and differently.
Yet beyond records and accolades, Hockney remains committed to exploration, insisting that art must be a constant re-invention of vision
Humaneness to Become Value the New Premium
I’m deeply convinced the next great revolution will be humanisation. Everything that carries an authentic human expression – even when created using the most advanced technology – will become more precious ~ Miša Lukić
Miša Lukić Business Designer
Someone has to dream big enough to awaken others. This sentence could well be the tagline of Miša Lukić, a man who – like Dragan Sakan, Srđan Šaper and Ivan Stanković – belongs to the last generation of authentic leaders of Serbia’s creative industries. His name isn’t just a brand: it’s a metaphor for boundaries pushed and ideas that change the course of business.
Over nearly three decades in top positions, Miša has led five marketing/communications agencies across Eastern Europe and the Middle East, including Saatchi & Saatchi and Leo Burnett. As Regional CEO of Publicis Groupe, he was responsible for as many as 30 countries – from the Baltics, via Greece and Turkey, to Central Asia. Under his leadership, the region has twice achieved the highest growth and profit across Publicis’s entire global network (2016–2018). As Chairman of the Board of Publicis Groupe Serbia, he led the country’s most successful network of agencies (Leo Burnett, Saatchi & Saatchi, Publicis), which was declared Best Agency in the Adriatic Region at the Golden Drum Festival (2010), Employer of the Year by the Serbian Association of Managers (2013) and the Most Creative and Innovative Company in Serbia by the Belgrade Chamber of Commerce (2012).
He is a recipient of numerous accolades and is ranked among Southeast Europe’s Top 100 Leaders. His agencies and teams have secured the most prestigious global honours, including at Cannes Lions, Cresta, Eurobest, Epica, Golden Drum, the FAB Awards and many others.
From his current base in Dubai, he is building a new paradigm of business design through his company NEW STARTEGY and developing Brand Sapiens, a visionary concept intended to breathe consciousness, empathy and responsibility into brands. Speaking in this interview, Miša opens the doors to his world: from childhood dreams to his philosophy of brands as the new protagonists of human history.
Roots and Horizons
“Culture is the most powerful force that shapes who we are, more than any instinct or gene” ~ Yuval Noah Harari
When you look back on the Belgrade of your childhood, what first comes to mind? What did you dream of as a boy?
The values I learnt at home taught me to be firm yet gentle; to know who I am, but never to think I’m above others
— The first thing that comes to mind is Duško Radović and his legendary aphorism on Studio B: “anyone lucky enough to wake up in Belgrade this morning can consider they have achieved enough for today. Any further insistence on something more would be immodest.”
Perhaps that sounds odd today, in an age when so many want to leave,
but we genuinely believed in that sentence. We were proud of Belgrade, and of ourselves for being part of it.
As a boy, I dreamt of being a bus driver. My father drove a lorry and taught me to drive when I was just ten, but I was more drawn to the idea of driving people on intercity and international routes. Not just for the driving itself, but because people are happy when travelling. And it mattered to me to take them where they wanted to go.
Looking back now, it seems that dream did come true, albeit in a different form. Perhaps the universe misunderstood me – instead of driving people, destiny decided I should lead them. ��
How did that environment shape your sense for ideas and symbols?
— My childhood and early youth unfolded during the ‘70s and ‘80s, which were probably the most carefree decades Belgrade has ever experienced. Despite being the capital of a communist country, Belgrade was open and full of life and culture. BITEF, FEST, Bemus, the Jazz Festival… Belgrade hosted artists and ideas from all over the world. On the radio you could hear Azra, Bowie, Indexi, The Rolling Stones… It’s interesting that one of the singers I loved back then was Nena, whose hit “99 Luftballons” sang of balloons but spoke of war. It was a strange time in Belgrade, when you could simultaneously love Bowie and a German anti-war song.
That was Belgrade – open to everything carrying emotion, a message and meaning. There was a sense of freedom in the air, perhaps not always political, but certainly intellectual and artistic. Belgrade breathed to its fullest. It was the perfect place for an imaginative and playful child to believe that ideas really could change the world.
What was the most valuable thing you took from home? How did you carry those values into business? — The most important thing I took from home was self-confidence. My
parents treated me from an early age as someone they believed in and trusted. They gave me security and roots on one side, and freedom and wings on the other. In my view, that’s the greatest gift a family can give.
I carried that sense of inner stability into business. I learnt that there’s no successful business without mutual trust. A leader doesn’t have all the answers, but gives others the strength to find their own.
My values from home taught me to be firm yet gentle; to know who I am, but never to think I’m above others; and, most importantly, not to measure business or life solely by results, but by the mark I leave on other people’s lives.
What does commitment mean to you in your private and professional life?
— I would start with the definition of the word “commitment”, at the root of which is the idea of complete orientation and devotion to something we consider important, meaningful or even sacred. Commitment means giving oneself fully to something higher – not superficially, not with a fragment of attention, but with one’s entire being. In my private life, it means true presence: listening without interrupting, loving without reservation, being a pillar of support and a guiding light when required.
In my professional life, commitment is devotion to purpose, not just a task. It is the inner decision to give your all even when no one is watching. It doesn’t imply perfection, but perseverance. Being committed means not giving up even when things get hard, because you know why you do what you do.
Do you remember when you first felt that you were no longer just part of an agency, but building a brand with your own name?
— I received the Lifetime Achievement Award at 44, as the youngest recipient of that award not only in Serbia, but around the region. For that
occasion, a film about me had to be made for the ceremony.
Instead of a classic biography, I decided that my colleague should go to Kalenić Market and ask stallholders: “Do you know who Miša Lukić is?” Nobody knew. Then she asked if they remembered the legendary adverts we had created. They all did, and smiles appeared on their faces.
If we don’t set boundaries, technology will cross even those we didn’t know we had
The film ended like Walter Defends Sarajevo. There, a German officer points to the city panorama and says: “Do you see this city? That is Walter.” In my film, the voice said: “Do you see these campaigns? That is Miša.”
That was the first time I thought I was no longer just part of an agency; that maybe there really was a story carrying my name. And that it was time to finally tell it.
Brands That Think and Feel
“The meaning of life is love, and it is the ultimate goal of history” ~ Vladimir Solovyov
Brand Sapiens sounds more like a philosophy than a project. How did you move from brand management to the idea of “brands with consciousness”?
— It actually is a philosophy. Brand Sapiens is the result of a decades-long journey through the world of brands, strategic consultancy and communications, but also a personal quest for deeper meaning in business. Over the years, I noticed an ever-widening gap between what brands say and what people really want to hear – which isn’t another commercial message, but honesty, relevance and connection. We no longer need brands that only talk, and mostly about themselves, but brands that listen, understand and connect with people at a deeper level.
Brand Sapiens is the answer to that challenge. It is the fusion of human empathy and technological intelligence that transforms every brand into an authentic, trustworthy being with which we want a relationship, not just a transaction. We no longer ask brands simply to sell; we ask them to understand, to share values and to take a stand. Brand Sapiens makes it possible for a brand not to be a corporate mask, but a present, conscious interlocutor in people’s lives.
I am deeply convinced that, following digitalisation and AI transformation, the next great revolution will be humanisation. Not as a return to the past, but as “Back to the Future” in its fullest sense. Humanisation will become the new premium value. Everything carrying an authentic human expression – even when created with the help of the most advanced technology – will become more precious.
The brands of the future will compete in terms of empathy. Generations born alongside AI won’t be impressed by technical perfection, but by a brand’s ability to understand and
speak to them honestly and meaningfully. They will seek authenticity, transparency and values with which they can identify. Brands will have to be more than products – they will be interactive beings that listen, learn, feel and respond in real time.
Those who fail to grasp this won’t speak the language of the future.
Where do you draw the line between humanistic ideals and profit realities? Can a brand truly transform into an ethical, responsible actor – or is that utopian?
— Profit in business is what happiness is in life – a consequence, not a goal. Neither should be pursued for its own sake. They come as a result of doing the right things. To be happy, you must do good for yourself and others. The same will hold true for business in the future. Profit will come only when you deliver real value to people. A product, however good, will no longer be enough. A brand must have a position, a pur-
To be happy, you must do good for yourself and others. The same will hold true for business in the future
pose and a sense of responsibility. It is no longer utopian for a brand to become an ethical actor – it has become a market necessity.
New generations will, at the very first filter, exclude companies that show no care for the planet, employees, communities, equality, future generations or transparency. Consumers previously looked first at quality, price, availability and promotion, and only then at values. That decision - making pyramid is today turning on its head. The pressure will be so strong that even brands that have no desire will have to act responsibly. And that is good news.
The Machines Are Coming –Will AI Make Us Redundant?
“Fear is the mind-killer” ~
Frank Herbert, Dune
There is a global cultural legacy warning of the dangers of surrendering to machines. As a member of the Advisory Board of the Serbian Society for Artificial Intelligence, do you believe business has a duty to act as a corrective to technology – to say “no” even when the market says “yes”?
content, but transmitting feelings, values and meaning. AI can suggest, assist and accelerate. But it cannot (yet) understand the context from which a deeply human message arises. I strike a balance by not expecting AI to think in my place, but rather to help me think faster, broader and clearer.
AI is like a mirror – it can reflect what I give it, but it cannot create light from within.
Not everything that is possible should automatically become acceptable. For
— There is a huge gap between utopian and dystopian thinkers when it comes to the machines of the future. Dystopian thinkers believe machines will destroy us, while utopian thinkers believe everything will progress perfectly. I have chosen not to be a dystopian, because if the black scenario doesn’t happen, those who expected it won’t be ready for a world that demands vision and creativity And if the worst-case scenario does occur… then, frankly, it makes little difference. That’s why I choose to believe in humanity’s ability to direct technology towards ennobling us, and not replacing us; towards empowering us, not erasing us.
I use AI as a tool that enhances human creativity, but I don’t surrender to it autonomy over the essence. Creation, to me, isn’t merely generating
example, using AI to manipulate emotions in advertising or create deepfake content for profit may already be technologically feasible, but that does not make it morally justified. The role of business isn’t to say “yes” simply because the market demands it, but to know when to say “no” – in the name of people, society and future generations.
Business Perspectives – What Does It Mean to Create in the 21st Century?
“The best way to predict the future is to create it” ~
Peter Drucker
What does “business design” mean to you? How does it differ from classical marketing approaches and build on them?
The Best Agency of the Adriatic Region at the Golden Drum 2010
— Business design is a fusion of strategic thinking and creative problem-solving. It is a process in which we don’t promote what already exists, but design what ought to exist. We don’t as k how to communicate, but how to create value that makes sense for all stakeholders.
Unlike classical marketing, business design starts from scratch, asking what truly needs to exist, for whom, why and how. It involves innovation in all areas of business – from value propositions, distribution channels and revenue models to user experience, internal culture and business purpose. In an age of rapid change, companies that don’t design their business as a living system risk disappearing.
A brand today ceases to be just a promise, as marketers long liked to say. It becomes the embodiment of everything the company is and does. It is no longer just a question of positioning, but of presence – how we live our purpose, how it is reflected in our daily decisions, relationships and experiences. In this new framework, business design becomes a prerequisite for an authentic brand. Without internal coherence, a brand has nothing to stand on.
Marketing without business design becomes mere scenery without substance.
What are the greatest challenges of business creation today?
— The biggest challenge is that business is done in a world that’s changing faster than most companies can adapt. Technology is advancing, but at the same time the gap in values, expectations and trust is widening. Clients and employees no longer seek only functionality, but meaning, attitude and responsibility. I once told a client he shouldn’t create a new product, but a new purpose. At first it sounded abstract to him, but when he realised that many of his customers no longer buy “for features”, but “for beliefs”, he changed his approach. Creating a business today demands courage, empathy and a constant willingness to question yourself – before the market does it for you.
I don’t believe the creative industries will save the world, but I do believe creativity in every industry will try. Marketing is no longer what it used to be, and technology will transform it even more. That’s why I advise young people not to seek a profession, but a calling, to select a purpose over a title; to be driven not by fear of mistakes, but by curiosity for learning.
The world is changing faster than ever, but that is their opportunity –not to inherit the divided world we have left them, but to create a new one, on their own terms.
A New World on Ancient Ground
“We shape our buildings, and afterwards our buildings shape us”
~ Winston Churchill
In Dubai, the future is being built on the sands of an ancient civilisation. How does that environment influence your ideas?
— Dubai is proof that anything is possible. When you see what has been
built in just a few decades, while some world cities still lack basic infrastructure, you realise that the greatest limitations are often only in the mind.
It reminds me of a line by Leo Burnett: “Let your hand always be poised to reach for the stars. You may not touch them, but your hand will not remain in the mud.”
The new “cities of ideas” will have to become laboratories of the future. Cities built on sand have the advantage of not being burdened by heritage. They start without nostalgia and therefore more easily imagine what does not yet exist.
In the future, it won’t be enough to test only smart buildings, but smarter societies. Not only technologies, but new cultures of living. If nations are the stories we tell about ourselves, then cities are places to test and rewrite those stories.
Time and Us
“And then, one day, you find ten years have got behind you…” ~ Pink Floyd, Time
Looking back at everything you’ve built, where do you find eternity in what you do?
— I don’t find eternity in projects, positions or awards. They come and go, changing with logos and years. What remains is the impact you’ve had on people – on their choices, courage, perspective. If I’ve helped someone believe in themselves, take action, recognise the value of their own authenticity, then I have left something that lasts longer than my name. I believe eternity lies in what isn’t seen immediately, but felt for a long time. And if I’ve built anything in life, I’ve tried to make precisely such things. My mission isn’t to pass on knowledge as a finished truth, but to open the mind to new questions and different perspectives – those for which each person must find their own answer. True understanding doesn’t come from external knowledge, but from the inner truth you’ve had the courage to reach yourself.
A WHALE OF A SURPRISE
One of August’s most unusual animal encounters came from the ocean. A seal was spotted stuck in the mouth of a humpback whale—thankfully unharmed when the whale opened wide. The bizarre scene sparked jokes online about “free whale taxis” and “ocean carpooling.” Nature, as always, finds ways to surprise and amuse.
TAYLOR SWIFT AND TRAVIS KELCE SEAL IT WITH A RING
Pop superstar Taylor Swift and NFL champion Travis Kelce confirmed their engagement with a cheeky Instagram post. “Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married,” the caption read, sparking instant global buzz. Fans from both music and sports communities poured in with congratulations. It was the ultimate crossover event that blended stadium lights and concert stages.
TORONTO’S CHINATOWN FESTIVAL TURNS 25
Toronto’s bustling Chinatown marked a colourful milestone with its 25th annual street festival. Lion dancers, sizzling food stalls, and musicians brought the neighbourhood to life. Families wandered between cultural performances and games, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. The anniversary proved that tradition and joy remain timeless crowd-pullers.
TOMATO MADNESS AT LA TOMATINA
Spain’s most playful festival returned on 27 August, as thousands flooded the streets of Buñol to hurl overripe tomatoes at each other. Within minutes, the town square transformed into a sea of red pulp. Tourists and locals alike embraced the chaos, laughing through the splatter. What started as a small town prank decades ago is now one of the world’s most joyful food fights.
GAMESCOM 2025 POWERS UP THE FUN
Europe’s biggest gaming convention lit up Cologne from 20–24 August with fresh reveals and fanfare. Players got a sneak peek at Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, Pokémon Legends Z-A, and the long-awaited Hollow Knight: Silksong. Cosplayers filled the halls, turning the expo into a carnival of colour and creativity. For gamers, it felt like Christmas in the middle of summer.
CARTOON PRINTS DELIGHT COLLECTORS
Morten Morland’s popular Sunday Times cartoon found a second life as art. Fans could buy signed prints of his August 31 caricature , turning a witty doodle into a collector’s gem. It’s proof that satire doesn’t just vanish with the morning coffee—it can live on as living-room décor. Who said politics can’t hang on the wall?
Burberry Trench Coat
Burberry’s timeless trench, born on WWI battlefields, remains the ultimate symbol of British outerwear.
Vivienne Westwood Pirate Boots
Westwood’s rebellious pirate boots defined a generation and made tartan and anarchy runway chic.
Stella McCartney Falabella Bag
The Falabella proved that sustainability and glamour could walk hand in hand in modern fashion.
Jimmy Choo
Lance Sandals
Jimmy Choo’s metallic strappy heels became an A-list uniform from Hollywood to Mayfair.
BRITAIN
From punk rebellion to royal elegance, these ten creations by British fashion houses have defined eras, broken rules, and travelled far beyond the Isles — proving that British style is as enduring as it is daring.
Dr. Martens 1460 Boots
Once workwear, the 1460 boot became the footwear of punks, rebels, and later global fashion icons.
Barbour Wax Jacket
The waxed jacket of farmers and royals alike, Barbour transformed countryside practicality into fashion prestige.
Victoria Beckham Bodycon Dress
Beckham’s sharp bodycon dresses redefined London chic and cemented her as a designer to take seriously.
IN STYLE
Paul Smith
Signature
Stripe Suit
Paul Smith reinvented classic British suiting with his playful signature stripes and impeccable cut.
Bayswater Bag
With its structured leather design, the Bayswater became the polished tote every British It-girl carried.
Alexander McQueen Skull Scarf
McQueen’s skull-print scarf turned gothic symbolism into a must-have luxury accessory.
CONCERT: MILENA STANKOVIĆ
(BASSOON) & UKI OVASKAINEN (PIANO)
8 September - Artget Gallery, KCB
The programme features Rossini’s Concerto for Bassoon and Orchestra, Schreck’s Sonata for Bassoon and Piano in E-flat major, and Mendelssohn’s Song Without Words.
Milena Stanković, an award-winning Serbian bassoonist and professor, has performed widely with leading orchestras across Europe. She appears alongside Finnish pianist Uki Ovaskainen, a prize-winning soloist and chamber musician who has graced major European festivals and concert halls.
CONCERT AT ZIDIĆ: ALEKSANDAR TRKULJA
19 & 20 September – Milan Mladenović Plateau
Aleksandar Trkulja is the latest discovery on Serbia’s rock scene, and it is with great pleasure that we present him at Zidić, as part of the 1st Belgrade Rock Festival! Having emerged from the Serbian diaspora in Sweden, where he has been successfully performing for several years as a young singer-songwriter, this 26-year-old has in the past year embarked on a new chapter in his career – composing in his mother tongue.
SMASH INTO PIECES CONCERT
28 September – Belgrade Youth Centre (DOB), Americana Hall
Smash Into Pieces boast a rich career and an international reputation, with numerous tours across Europe, the United States and their native Sweden. The band rose to great popularity following their participation in Melodifestivalen 2023, where they performed the hit Six Feet Under, certified quadruple platinum in Sweden.
CONCERTS FOR PRESCHOOLERS / JEANLOUP & ETIENNE: THE ORCHESTRA CLOWN
30 September -3 October - Belgrade Philharmonic Hall
Conductor: Stephan Hodel; Soloist: Kurt Bucher
A clown with the Philharmonic? Can that go well?
Jeanloup wants to play in the orchestra, but conductor Etienne is not at all amused…
THE EUROPEAN CONFERENCE ON EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH (ECER 2025)
8-12 September - SASA Grand Hall, Belgrade
The European Educational Research Association (EERA) is organising the ECER 2025 Annual Event in Belgrade, under the theme “Charting the Way Forward: Education, Research, Potentials and Perspectives”. The event features six keynotes speakers from different universities and different workshops and networking events.
ENGRAVING UNIVERSAL VALUES:
PROMETHEUS
SYMPOSIUM
ON DIGITAL EPIGRAPHY AND HERITAGE REPRESENTATION
18 September – SASA Hall 2
Promoting Universal Values through Digital Epigraphy and Cultural Heritage is a small-scale cooperation project funded by the European Union Program Creative Europe, Culture strand. It is also co-funded by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Northern Macedonia, the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Serbia, and the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Bulgaria.
WORLD CONFERENCE ON SCIENCE AND ART FOR SUSTAINABILITY
22-24 September - Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts (SASA), Belgrade
The aims of the Conference are: to listen to prominent individuals acting in different science and art disciplines and coming from different parts of the world, to induce fruitful interactions among them, and to deduce from all that some concrete conclusions on the contributions of science and art to sustainable, secure, and peaceful development to be presented to the interested policymakers and other science and art stakeholders at the local, national, regional, and global scales.
MLADEN SRBINOVIĆ: MAN IS THE MEASURE OF ALL THINGS
– EXHIBITION
30 September – 30 November - SASA Gallery, Belgrade
The exhibition, organised by the SASA Gallery in cooperation with the Museum of Contemporary Art, is being staged to mark the centenary of the birth of this eminent artist, academic and professor, whose oeuvre made an undeniable contribution to the development of the Serbian and Yugoslav art scene during the second half of the 20 th and the first decade of the 21 st century.
Faces & Places
Switzerland Celebrates National Day
29/7/2025
The Embassy of Switzerland in Serbia marked Swiss National Day with an elegant reception at the ambassadorial residence in Belgrade, hosted by H.E. Anne Lugon-Moulin, Ambassador of Switzerland. The event gathered government officials, diplomats, business leaders, and representatives of the Swiss community in Serbia to celebrate the strong and enduring ties between the two countries.
Morocco Marks National Day in Belgrade
30/7/2025
The Embassy of Morocco in Serbia celebrated the 26th anniversary of King Mohammed VI’s accession to the throne with a diplomatic reception in Belgrade, reaffirming the friendship and cooperation between Morocco and Serbia. In her address, Chargée d’Affaires Aicha Sinaceur praised the leadership of King Mohammed VI and Morocco’s transformation across politics, infrastructure, diplomacy, and green energy.
Faces & Places
India Marks 79th Independence Day
15/8/2025
The Embassy of India in Belgrade celebrated the 79 th anniversary of India’s Independence Day on 15 August 2025 with a ceremony held at the chancery. The event featured the hoisting of the Indian national flag, a reading of President Droupadi Murmu’s official address, and a special exhibition dedicated to Indian freedom fighters and traditional handicrafts. Attended by members of the diplomatic community, Indian nationals, and Serbian guests, the celebration highlighted the enduring bonds between India and Serbia.
Indonesia Celebrates 80th Independence
Anniversary in Belgrade
17/8/2025
The Embassy of Indonesia in Belgrade hosted a special event to mark the 80 th anniversary of Indonesia’s independence— Dirgahayu Republik Indonesia. Held in a festive atmosphere, the celebration featured traditional music, dance performances, and Indonesian cuisine, highlighting the country’s rich cultural heritage. Diplomats, officials, and friends of Indonesia gathered to honour the enduring friendship between Indonesia and Serbia.
Ambassadors of Brazil, Egypt and Lebanon Pay Farewell Visits to President Vučić
29/8/2025
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić received the ambassadors of Brazil, Egypt, and Lebanon in separate farewell visits at the Palace of Serbia, marking the conclusion of their diplomatic missions in Belgrade.
Ambassador José Mauro da Fonseca Costa Couto of Brazil was praised for his contribution to enhancing political dialogue and economic cooperation between the two countries. President Vučić thanked him for actively promoting bilateral relations and expressed Serbia’s interest in deepening its partnership with Brazil across various sectors.
The outgoing Egyptian Ambassador, Basel Salah, was also received with warm appreciation. Vučić highlighted the long-standing friendship between Serbia and Egypt and conveyed Ser-
bia’s commitment to further strengthening economic, educational and cultural exchange with Cairo.
In his meeting with the Lebanese Ambassador, President Vučić underlined Serbia’s readiness to maintain regular high-level dialogue and to continue supporting Lebanese citizens living and working in Serbia. Although the ambassador’s name was not officially disclosed in state reports, the tone of the meeting reflected mutual respect and partnership.
These farewell visits underscored Serbia’s commitment to fostering constructive diplomatic relations with partners from different regions of the world. As new ambassadors prepare to assume their roles, the Serbian government signalled continued openness to international cooperation and dialogue.
What science can do
Oncology R&D strategy
In Oncology R&D we have a breadth of scientific platforms to attack cancer from multiple angles, aiming to harness the power of combinations to drive even deeper responses.
