PERSISTENCE IN UPHOLDING CHERISHED VALUES

ALTHOUGH THE LEGACY OF THE ENLIGHTENMENT, AS A CULTURAL PERSPECTIVE, CURRENTLY FACES CHALLENGES, INCLUDING FROM WITHIN THE EUROPEAN UNION, FRENCH CULTURAL POLICY REMAINS MORE COMMITTED THAN EVER TO ENDORSING A GLOBAL ORDER PREDICATED ON LAW, MULTILATERALISM, AND RESPECT FOR CULTURAL DIVERSITY

Overthe past two years, the French Embassy in Serbia has organised debates to focus on two critical subjects: the geopolitical issues central to Europe, with conferences led by essayist Jean-François Colosimo and Philosopher Michel Eltchaninoff; and gender, through a series of discussions entitled “What is Gender?”. These debates have reinforced our support for civil society in combating discrimination and advocating for the rights of women and minorities. Esteemed guests participated in these discussions, such as sociologist Eric Fassin, political scientist Françoise Vergès, philosopher Marc Crépon, as well as writer and academic Camille Kouchner.

The French understanding of culture that we disseminate in Serbia is deeply rooted in our history and is particularly strongly influenced by the legacy of the Enlightenment and the principles established in 1789. Our cultural impact also draws from the experiences and lessons of the 20th century.

This cultural perspective is currently facing challenges, including from within the European Union. Nevertheless, French cultural policy remains more committed than ever to endorsing a global order predicated on law, multilateralism, and respect for cultural diversity. In line with this, we will persist in upholding the values that we cherish: justice, gender equality, freedom of expression, and solidarity with the most vulnerable.

WE AIM TO USE THE UPCOMING BELGRADE INTERNATIONAL BOOK FAIR TO PROMOTE FRENCH LITERATURE IN ALL ITS FACETS, RANGING FROM COMICS AND ART BOOKS, TO ADULT AND YOUTH LITERATURE, EDUCATION, AND SCIENCE

These topics will feature prominently in the upcoming Belgrade International Book Fair, which is this year scheduled to take place from 21st to 29th October, with France as the guest of honour.

This fair represents a significant opportunity for our cultural diplomacy in Serbia. The participation of acclaimed authors and notable figures from the fields of sport, science and gastronomy, including Mathias Enard, Eric-Emmanuel Schmitt, Thomas Piketty, Pierre Assouline, Catherine Cusset, Marguerite Le Huche, Toni Valente and Barbara Cassin, is expected to attract a large audience.

Through this fair, we aim to promote French literature in all its facets, ranging from comics and art books to adult and youth literature, education, and science. The event will also showcase both traditional and innovative forms, including audiobooks and digital books, while introducing the comprehensive offerings of the French Institute in Serbia to the public and professionals.