„European integration and EU membership remain Serbia’s national interest, strategic commitment, and foreign policy priority.”
Edited by Anna Popper
Serbia celebrates its National Day, also called Statehood Day, on 15 February. This two-day holiday commemorates the 1804 uprising against the Ottoman Empire that ultimately led to the Serbian Revolution.
The date also holds historical significance as it is the anniversary of the adoption of the Sretenje Constitution in 1835, one of the most progressive and liberal constitutions in Europe at the time, which was intended to protect human rights.
Recognized as a national holiday since 2001, Statehood Day is one of Serbia’s most important historical and cultural celebrations.
To mark the occasion, the Embassy of the Republic of Serbia in Budapest hosted a grand reception at its premises, located in one of the most picturesque areas of the Hungarian capital, overlooking Heroes’ Square.
The event brought together senior officials of the Hungarian government, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of the economic, cultural and academic spheres, as well as Serbian institutions and nationals.
The evening began with the live performance of the national anthems of Serbia and Hungary.
This was followed by an address from Her Excellency Mrs. Aleksandra Đurović, Ambassador of the Republic of Serbia to Hungary:
“Your Excellencies, esteemed military attachés of Budapest and Timișoara, Mr. Lukijan, distinguished representatives of the Serb national minorities and Serbian institutions in Hungary, Dear Guests and Friends,
It is my great honour and privilege to welcome you to the Embassy of the Republic of Serbia on Serbia’s Statehood Day, a holiday of utmost significance in the political, historical and cultural calendar of Serbia.
On this occasion, we also commemorate the Day of the Serbian Armed Forces together, thereby recognizing our country’s rich military tradition.
15 February has a profound and multifaceted symbolism for the Serbian state, people, church, and military.
On this day in 1804, the First Serbian Uprising led by Đorđe Petrović Karađorđe began in the village of Orašac, in Šumadija, the geographical heart of today’s Serbia. This event can be considered a small Serbian revolution, marking the beginning of Serbia’s liberation from the Ottoman Empire and the initial struggle for the unification of the Serbs.
The second major reason for our celebration today is that on 15 February 1835, in the then-capital Kragujevac, Serbia adopted its first constitution – the Sretenje (Candlemas) Constitution. This historic document laid the foundation for the emergence of a modern Serbian state and was modelled on the constitutions of France and Belgium. As the easternmost country influenced by the ideals of the French Revolution, Serbia was the first in the Balkans to abolish feudalism. The Sretenje Constitution can be counted among the most progressive democratic constitutions of its time, as it established the equality of all Serbian citizens before the law and the courts. However, precisely because of these advanced principles, the Constitution faced opposition from the major powers and was soon suspended.
Both of these landmark events, commemorated on 15 and 16 February in Serbia, occurred on our important religious holiday, Sretenje, after which the first Serbian Constitution was named. Why are these events so crucial for Serbia?
From the First Serbian Uprising in 1804 to the following 100 years, Serbia underwent a rapid transformation that took other nations centuries to achieve in their quest for independence and the establishment of state institutions and culture. This great holiday serves as a reminder to be proud of our glorious past and to honour the heroism and bravery of our ancestors, their patriotism, pursuit of justice, and unwavering desire for freedom.
Today, more than ever, we need the unity and determination that marked the era of the uprising and the foundation of our state. Preserving and nurturing all that defines our identity is essential in these challenging times, ensuring that we continue on the path of development and freedom.
By highlighting these historical events and celebrating this holiday, we wish to remind all nations that Serbia has always been an integral part of the European family of nations and a civilization where norms, rules and rights should apply equally to all. European integration and EU membership remain a national interest, a strategic commitment and a foreign policy priority for Serbia. Our goal is full EU membership. However, this process is continually delayed through no fault of Serbia as new conditions are imposed – conditions that no other Member State has had to fulfil.
Serbia is working intensively to align its legal framework and practices with the EU by the end of 2026 for the benefit of its citizens, regardless of the timeline for accession. Despite our significant efforts in European integration, the responses from certain EU institutions have not been encouraging enough, which has led to a sense of fatigue among Serbian citizens due to this prolonged process. Serbia remains principled and consistent in upholding international law. Kosovo and Metohija are inalienable parts of the Serbian state and we continue to defend our sovereignty by all democratic, diplomatic and legal means. Although we lack the support of the Brussels administration and certain Member States, we will never give up this fight.
On the other hand, we are fortunate to have Hungary as our host country and a good neighbour of Serbia. We extend our gratitude to Hungary for its understanding of our situation and its unique support. Serbia has deeply appreciated the invitations to our highest officials to participate in significant meetings and conferences organised by Hungary on key topics related to EU enlargement. In particular, during the Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the EU in the second half of 2024, we have felt the full and unconditional support of Hungary’s political leadership.
Given the personal friendship and mutual understanding between the two statesmen – President Aleksandar Vučić and Prime Minister Viktor Orbán – Serbia and Hungary are an example of good neighbourly relations and policy alignment in times of great challenges and changes, especially in Europe. We firmly believe that this cooperation will contribute to overcoming all the obstacles that undoubtedly lie ahead.
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Hungary on its visionary and courageous Presidency of the Council of the European Union and on the achievements made despite all the challenges.”
Representing the Hungarian government, Ms. Henrietta Balajty, Deputy State Secretary for Security Policy and Political Director of the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, took the stage as guest of honour to extend heartfelt congratulations on Serbia’s Statehood Day. In her address, she highlighted Serbia’s remarkable progress and achievements, as well as the excellent historical and contemporary relations between Hungary and its southern neighbour. She emphasized the deep-rooted ties that have connected the two nations for centuries and which are reflected today in their strong political, economic and cultural cooperation.
Following the official speeches, the guests enjoyed a lavish reception with a rich array of Serbian specialties, delicacies and fine wines.
The evening was further enriched by live performances of Serbian music and songs, creating a warm, festive atmosphere that underscored the spirit of friendship and partnership between Serbia and Hungary.
Source: Embassy of the Republic of Serbia in Budapest
Photos by the Embassy of the Republic of Serbia in Budapest and DPA
EXPO 2027 Belgrade: Play for Humanity
Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, has successfully surpassed strong competitors – including Minnesota, USA; Phuket, Thailand; Malaga, Spain; and San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina – to earn the honour of hosting the prestigious Specialized Expo 2027.
This global event will take place from 15 May to 15 August 2027 in the Surčin suburb and will position Belgrade as a dynamic centre for education, culture and innovation. With representatives from numerous countries gathering in the Serbian capital, EXPO 2027 will provide a platform for exploring ground-breaking ideas and fostering international cooperation.
The Central Theme: Play for Humanity – Sport and Music for All
EXPO 2027 is set to redefine global perspectives through its central theme “Play for Humanity”. This concept emphasizes the fundamental role of play in human development, creativity and problem solving. It is a reminder that play is not merely a pastime, but a crucial method for discovery, innovation and transcending known boundaries. In an era marked by rapid change and uncertainty, the ability to adapt and engage in creative exploration has never been more vital.
Exploring the Sub-Themes
To comprehensively address the significance of play, EXPO 2027 divides its main theme into three interconnected subthemes, each shedding light on different aspects of play and its transformative impact on humanity:
Power of Play – This segment explores play as a driving force behind learning, creativity and human advancement. From early childhood education to cutting-edge scientific discoveries, play serves as an essential tool for problem-solving and intellectual growth.
Play for Progress – Focusing on the role of play in technological and social innovation, this subtheme highlights how play has historically fuelled progress. Whether in engineering, medicine or the arts, playful experimentation leads to ground-breaking advancements that shape the future.
Play Together – This theme emphasizes the social aspect of play and promotes inclusivity, diversity and cross-cultural collaboration. Play fosters unity among communities, breaking down barriers and building bridges between people of different backgrounds.
A Global Gathering of Innovation and Culture
As a major international event, EXPO 2027 will attract governments, businesses, artists, scientists and innovators from around the world. The exhibition will provide a unique platform for exchanging ideas, forging partnerships and showcasing advancements that align with the vision of a better, more interconnected future. Belgrade, with its rich history and vibrant energy, is the ideal host for this ground-breaking event. The city’s dynamic mix of tradition and modernity will serve as the perfect backdrop for a global conversation on the importance of play in shaping a more innovative and inclusive world.
EXPO 2027 Belgrade is poised to be an extraordinary celebration of human potential and creativity. By embracing the power of play as a tool for discovery, progress and unity, the event will inspire participants to rethink the way we learn, interact and innovate. As the world turns its attention to Belgrade in 2027, the city will stand as a beacon of global collaboration and visionary thinking, reinforcing the message that humanity can evolve and thrive through play.
“Play is a human superpower, the foundation of resilience and building capacity to face new challenges in the future.” It sparks creativity, strengthens social bonds, enhances problem-solving skills and fosters perseverance. Through play, we innovate, adapt and explore new possibilities, making it essential for continuous learning and well-being not only in childhood but throughout life. Unlike many other species, humans engage in complex, imaginative and structured forms of play at every stage of life. This unique ability fuels creativity, sharpens cognitive flexibility, and strengthens our problem-solving ability, making play one of the most powerful tools for personal growth and innovation.
Source: expobelgrade2027.org
Photos from expobelgrade2027.org
