In 2026, EXIT Festival is set to leave Serbia for the first time in its 25-year history — a landmark decision driven by mounting political pressure, the withdrawal of public funding, and an increasingly hostile environment for independent cultural institutions.

Founded in 2000 as a student-led protest movement for democracy and freedom of expression, EXIT grew into one of Europe’s most renowned music festivals, symbolizing not just artistic excellence but civic courage. Now, with the political climate shifting and space for dissent shrinking, the festival faces a fundamental question: Can it remain true to its founding values without the support — or tolerance — of its home country?

In a 1:2 interview, founder Dušan Kovačević and a team member reflect on this historic turning point: how to navigate exile, rebuild vision, and defend cultural space under pressure in a changing Europe.

Speaker: Dušan Kovačević (EXIT Festival)