42 min

Episode 29: Facing the Past, Building the Future - Culture and cooperation in the Western Balkans with Vladimir Arsenijevic Vienna Coffee House Conversations with Ivan Vejvoda

    • Philosophy

In this episode of "Vienna Coffeehouse Conversations" Ivan Vejvoda sits down with Serbian writer and cultural activist Vladimir Arsenijević. The discussion navigates through the complex aftermath of Yugoslavia's dissolution and the evolving political and social fabric of Serbia.

The conversation offers insights into Arsenijević's initiatives, like the publishing house Rende and the Krokodil literary festival, which aim to rebuild cultural bridges in the Balkans. These efforts highlight the significance of cultural exchange in healing and understanding within the region.

Arsenijević also shares his experiences in providing humanitarian support in Ukraine, shedding light on the ground realities amid Russian aggression. This part of the discussion reflects on the broader implications of the conflict and Serbia's response to it.

Delving into Serbia's internal politics, the episode examines the country's relationship with Russia and the European Union, the enduring influence of nationalistic narratives, and societal challenges under prolonged political leadership. Arsenijević discusses the potential for change in Serbia, considering the upcoming elections and the younger generation's perspectives.

The episode concludes with an exploration of Serbia's cultural landscape, the role of cultural figures in addressing socio-political issues, and the impact of media on public opinion and youth engagement. Arsenijević's insights provide a nuanced understanding of Serbia's path forward in Europe and the ongoing challenges in the region.

In this episode of "Vienna Coffeehouse Conversations" Ivan Vejvoda sits down with Serbian writer and cultural activist Vladimir Arsenijević. The discussion navigates through the complex aftermath of Yugoslavia's dissolution and the evolving political and social fabric of Serbia.

The conversation offers insights into Arsenijević's initiatives, like the publishing house Rende and the Krokodil literary festival, which aim to rebuild cultural bridges in the Balkans. These efforts highlight the significance of cultural exchange in healing and understanding within the region.

Arsenijević also shares his experiences in providing humanitarian support in Ukraine, shedding light on the ground realities amid Russian aggression. This part of the discussion reflects on the broader implications of the conflict and Serbia's response to it.

Delving into Serbia's internal politics, the episode examines the country's relationship with Russia and the European Union, the enduring influence of nationalistic narratives, and societal challenges under prolonged political leadership. Arsenijević discusses the potential for change in Serbia, considering the upcoming elections and the younger generation's perspectives.

The episode concludes with an exploration of Serbia's cultural landscape, the role of cultural figures in addressing socio-political issues, and the impact of media on public opinion and youth engagement. Arsenijević's insights provide a nuanced understanding of Serbia's path forward in Europe and the ongoing challenges in the region.

42 min