SER Culture for Democracy


Independent culture & arts are strong drivers for improved social cohesion, tolerance and democratic practice at the local level. Building on this potential CfD will support quality cultural and artistic initiatives, mainly outside of urban centers. Strengthening the resilience and strategic focus of independent cultural actors will open up more spaces for critical thinking and reflection and ultimately contribute to stronger foundations for social cohesion, tolerance and democracy in Serbia.

Región/País Tema Período Presupuesto
Serbia
Governance
nothemedefined
Cultura y ocio
Participación democrática y sociedad civil
Derechos humanos (incluidos los derechos de las mujeres)
01.03.2025 - 31.12.2028
CHF  1’990’000
Contexto Arts and culture are crucial for fostering greater tolerance and social cohesion, open and inclusive societies. Since the early 2000’s political turbulences have continued to erode the cultural sector's autonomy. Due to insufficient resources and inadequate professional expertise, public institutions are struggling to fulfill their role. At the same time, independent cultural actors continue to face limited access to (public) funding and lack organizational and financial capacities which in turn disables the achievement of their full potential. The cultural scene remains characterized by restricted freedom of expression on topics not in line with the ruling party discourse, limited cultural offer in rural areas and absence of alternative spaces for gatherings. In the given context, the independent cultural sector stays a focal point for enabling, not only the development of the cultural and artistic scene, but also strengthening links between culture and education, democracy, and the overall social development.
Objetivos An independent and dynamic cultural sector contributes to improved social cohesion and tolerance at the local level in Serbia.
Grupos destinarios Primary target group are independent cultural actors, mostly outside of urban centers, including CSOs, citizens’ associations and self-employed individuals, among which also youth. The general public, in particular the audience in smaller and rural communities, are considered to be final beneficiaries, including vulnerable groups, benefitting from quality cultural and artistic content.
Efectos a medio plazo

Outcome 1: Enhanced organizational capacities and overall resilience of cultural and artistic actors enable their development and effective achievement of their goals.

Outcome 2: Individual cultural and artistic actors’ production triggers critical thinking, social dialogue and awareness raising around topics of immediate relevance for their communities.

Resultados

Resultados previstos:   Six larger organizations will be provided longer-term support to enhance their organisational, programmatic, and financial capacities. A capacity building program for smaller organizations is envisaged in two formats: job shadowing arrangements (8 in total) and two thematic workshops (20 participants each). Annual networking events will foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among different profiles of actors. In terms of production and dissemination of cultural and artistic content, support for 30-40 grant projects and eight young, emerging artists will pre provided for diversifying the cultural landscape and strengthening socially engaged narratives.


Resultados de las fases anteriores:   During CfD Phase 1, a total of 84 cultural and artistic organizations (89 projects) in 48 cities and municipalities across the country were supported. With over 500 positive media articles highlighting close to 700 events, these projects have been well-received by the media and public, engaging more than 20’000 individuals (60% females). The external review has recognized CfD Project as a lifeline for independent cultural actors, ensuring their survival and enabling them to remain true to their identities while tackling socially relevant topics.


Dirección / Officina Federal responsable COSUDE
Contrapartes del proyecto Contraparte del contrato
ONG internacional o extranjera
  • Other international or foreign NGO North
  • Heartefact Fund


Coordinación con otros proyectos y actores The project will ensure complementarities with other Swiss initiatives supporting civil society (e.g. For an Active Civil Society Together, Civil Society Resiliency Strengthening, Support to Improved Media Environment). CfD will also seek synergies with smaller cultural initiatives that have a history of supporting local actors.
Presupuesto Fase en curso Presupuesto suizo CHF    1’990’000 Presupuesto actual suizo ya emitido CHF    250’000 Total del proyecto desde la primera fase Presupuesto suizo CHF   1’877’000 Presupuesto inclusive contrapartes del proyecto CHF   3’867’000
Fases del proyecto Fase 2 01.03.2025 - 31.12.2028   (Fase en curso) Fase 1 15.07.2020 - 28.02.2025   (Completed)