20-30.03.2025

The “Icebreakers: Culture Without Borders” program brought together artists, activists, and intellectuals from Belgrade and Prishtina to encourage dialogue and intercultural exchange. From March 20–30, 2025, eighteen participants from Kosovo and Serbia came together to reflect on the past, engage in peacebuilding, and explore paths toward reconciliation.

In Belgrade, the journey began with a workshop led by Aleksandar Pavlović, followed by visits to the Center for Cultural Decontamination (CZKD)—a hub of critical thought and resistance—and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Participants traveled to Novi Sad, where they explored the Petrovaradin Fortress and the exhibition “Mileva: We Are Rock”, highlighting the legacy of Mileva Marić Einstein. In a powerful lecture, Aleksandra Bosnić Đurić discussed political resistance and student protests in Serbia, tying in collective memory of the Kosovo war.

At the Human Rights House, Sonja Biserko from the Helsinki Committee for Human Rights welcomed participants and led discussions on evolving relations between Prishtina and Belgrade, and the crucial role of civil society. The Serbian leg of the visit concluded with an intimate conversation with author Saša Ilić, who reflected on his first visit to Prishtina, cultural exchange, and the role of literature in shaping perceptions.

In Prishtina, the group visited Artpolis, where Zana Hoxha presented their work using art and activism to promote social change and gender equality, emphasizing theater as a tool for empowerment. At Termokiss, an independent cultural center, participants explored community-driven dialogue and transformation. A workshop with Igo Rugova highlighted activism, reconciliation, and the key role of women in peacebuilding.

They also visited the Documentation Center and the moving exhibition “Once Upon a Time Never Again,” honoring 1,133 children killed or disappeared during the last war in Kosovo. A powerful lecture by filmmaker Blerta Basholli inspired young participants to persevere in following their dreams, no matter the obstacles.

In Prizren, known for its rich cultural diversity, the group explored the League of Prizren, a site central to Albanian national identity. Bashkim Fazliu led a thought-provoking lecture on nations, identities, and historical myths, sparking discussion on how historical narratives shape regional relationships—and how dialogue can replace division. Visits to Dokufest, Lumbardhi, and Prizren Fortress offered a deeper understanding of the city’s cultural legacy.

The final day led the participants to Peja, where they gathered at the Jusuf Gërvalla Cinema to watch short animations from Anibar, followed by visits to the Deçan Monastery and the Patriarchate of Peja—concluding the exchange with reflection and connection.

Throughout the journey, mentor Tamara Tomashević carefully guided the group, weaving art into every discussion and encouraging the participants to express themselves through creativity. This unforgettable experience created space for open dialogue, mutual learning, and a shared vision for peace.

The “Culture without Borders” program is led by the Helsinki Committee for Human Rights in Serbia (HO), and since 2023 it is implemented in cooperation with Artpolis, with the financial support of the European Union.