As part of the 20th Festival of International Student Theater (FIST 2025), the Youth Initiative for Human Rights (YIHR) supported a youth-led public debate on one of Serbia’s most pressing issues — the EXPO 2027 project. Conceived and organized entirely by young people, this initiative emerged as a form of democratic resistance in a political climate where civic participation is increasingly restricted.

The festival took place amid student blockades and growing civil unrest, reflecting the broader erosion of democratic space in Serbia. In this context, young people created a platform for open, inclusive dialogue on the EXPO 2027 project — an initiative marked by the lack of transparent public consultation, despite legal obligations for such processes. 

In response, FIST 2025 hosted an independent public hearing — the first of its kind — bringing together citizens and experts to critically engage with the project. More than a critique of EXPO, this event served as a powerful example of youth leadership and advocacy for democratic values and institutional accountability. 

The outcomes of the discussion were compiled into a citizen-led document and will be submitted to relevant institutions, amplifying voices excluded from official processes. 

By reclaiming space for democratic dialogue, FIST reaffirmed the essential role of youth in defending democratic society. 

This project is funded by the European Union. The content is the sole responsibility of the Youth Initiative for Human Rights and FIST, and does not reflect the views of the European Union.