Episode 33: Building Resilient Movements with Ivan Marovi‪ć‬ Vienna Coffee House Conversations with Ivan Vejvoda

In this episode of the "Vienna Coffee House Conversations" podcast, Ivan Vejvoda interviews Ivan Marović, executive director of the International Center on Nonviolent Conflict, about his experiences and insights on nonviolent civil resistance. Marović reflects on his journey from being a student activist in Serbia's Otpor! movement, which played a crucial role in the fall of Slobodan Milosevic, to his current work in promoting civil resistance globally. He emphasizes the importance of sustained, organized movements over spontaneous protests and the need for civil society to actively engage in politics to prevent authoritarianism.

Synopsis:
Biographical Beginnings
Vejvoda asks Marović to share his early experiences and influences in nonviolent civil resistance.
Marović recounts his coming of age during the war, his exposure to the atrocities of war and nationalism, and his involvement in the Belgrade University protests. He highlights his participation in the 1996 student protests and the creation of the Otpor movement, emphasizing the need for sustained, organized resistance.

Otpor Movement and Strategies
Vejvoda asks about the formation and strategies of the Otpor movement.
Answer: Marović explains the transition from protest to a sustainable movement, the intergenerational support within Otpor, and the strategic, long-term approach that contributed to the fall of Milosevic. He underscores the importance of both rapid mobilization and structured organization.

Post-Otpor Career and Global Work
Vejvoda inquires about Marović’s work after Otpor and his contributions to global civil resistance.
Marović discusses his role in advising pro-democracy groups worldwide, the significance of systematized education on civil resistance, and his efforts in creating learning programs and training organizations.

Challenges to Democracy Today
Vejvoda asks about the current democratic decline and the factors contributing to it.
Marović identifies the erosion of civil society and the manipulation of political institutions as key factors. He contrasts today’s slow erosion of democracy with the coups of the past and emphasizes the need for a strong civil society to resist authoritarian trends.

Role of Movements in Modern Politics
Vejvoda seeks Marović’s views on the potential of modern movements to influence political change.
Marović explains that movements help people connect to issues and to each other, fostering political engagement. He highlights the role of movements in shaping political climate and their importance in strengthening democratic institutions.

Personal Experience in Politics
Vejvoda asks about Marović’s brief venture into formal politics and the lessons learned.
Marović shares his realization that focusing too much on building a political party can undermine the larger democratic project. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong movement to influence the political climate.

Ukraine and Civil Resistance
Vejvoda inquires about Marović’s involvement with civil society in Ukraine during the ongoing conflict.
Marović praises the resilience and nonviolent resistance of ordinary Ukrainians, stressing the importance of highlighting these stories. He underscores the role of civil resistance even in times of armed conflict.

U.S. Political Engagement
Vejvoda asks about the potential political engagement of young voters in the upcoming U.S. elections.
Marović expresses optimism about the higher turnout of Generation Z, noting their pragmatic approach to politics and their willingness to use all available channels to make their voices heard.

Conclusion:
Final Thoughts: Vejvoda and Marović reflect on the importance of citizen engagement and the ongoing struggle for democracy and human rights.