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, host Ivan Vejvoda welcomes IWM and ERSTE Foundation's Europe's Futures Fellow Vladimir Arsenijević for an insightful dialogue on the cultural and political landscape of post-Yugoslav Europe. The conversation delves into Arsenijević’s multifaceted role as a writer, cultural worker, and engaged intellectual. It covers the challenges of nationalism, the importance of regional cooperation, Serbia's complex relationship with Russia and the European Union, and the evolving cultural scene in Serbia. Arsenijević’s perspective on Serbia's path forward, his humanitarian work in Ukraine, and the role of culture in shaping societal narratives provide a deep understanding of the region's current state and future directions.
Vladimir Arsenijević is a renowned Serbian author and cultural activist. Since 1994, he has published various works, including novels, stories, and essays, which have been translated into more than 20 languages. He is a recipient of prestigious awards such as the Nin Prize and the National Library of Serbia Award. Arsenijević is also the president and creative director of the association Krokodil, focusing on cultural exchange and humanitarian efforts. His engagement in initiatives like the Krokodil literary festival and cross-border cultural collaborations highlights his commitment to fostering understanding and empathy in the Balkans and beyond.
For more information about Vladimir Arsenijević and his initiatives, visit the Krokodil website at Krokodil's Official Website.
Find Vladimir at vladimirarsenijevic.com
Ivan Vejvoda is Head of the Europe's Futures program at IWM implemented in partnership with ERSTE Foundation. The program is dedicated to the cultivation of knowledge and the generation of ideas addressing pivotal challenges confronting Europe and the European Union: nexus of borders and migration, deterioration in rule of law and democracy and European Union’s enlargement prospects.
The Institute for Human Sciences (IWM) is an institute of advanced studies in the humanities and social sciences. Founded as a place of encounter in 1982 by a young Polish philosopher, Krzysztof Michalski, and two German colleagues in neutral Austria, its initial mission was to create a meeting place for dissenting thinkers of Eastern Europe and prominent scholars from the West.
Since then it has promoted intellectual exchange across disciplines, between academia and society, and among regions that now embrace the Global South and North. The IWM is an independent and non-partisan institution, and proudly so. All of our fellows, visiting and permanent, pursue their own research in an environment designed to enrich their work and to render it more accessible within and beyond academia.
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