Serbian Advocacy Event - Roundtable at RIPCM

Roundtable “Do We Need Young Experts and What Kind?”  

On Tuesday, 18th November 2025, a roundtable titled Do We Need Young Experts and What Kind? was held at the Republic Institute for the Protection of Cultural Monuments, as part of the Advocacy campaign within the CultHeRit project, Finding Solutions to Labour Market Imbalances in the Cultural Heritage Sector in the Danube Region by Improving Its Accessibility to Young Professionals. The event brought together representatives of institutions, media, and young people with the aim of identifying key challenges, needs, and potential of youth in the cultural heritage protection system. 

The event was moderated by Tamara Ognjević, coordinator of the CultHeRit Project Key Stakeholder Group. 

Milena Dragićević Šešić, an expert in cultural policy, emphasized the importance of a strategic approach to both formal and informal education, as well as the inclusion of young people in cultural institutions, addressing that the future of the sector depends on systemic support for new generations. 

Suzana Sudar, a cultural journalist, reminded participants of the important role media play in presenting cultural heritage topics to the wider public and the need for more contemporary and accessible institutional communication. She also highlighted the importance of intergenerational solidarity for improving work in today’s professional environment. 

Branislav Orlić, a lawyer with long-standing experience in the field of cultural heritage protection, spoke about legal and institutional limitations affecting the employment of young professionals, as well as opportunities for improving HR policies. 

The CultHeRit project coordinator, Vladimir Džamić, presented project activities focused on strengthening young people’s competencies through mentorship programmes and practical work. 

Young professional Dorotea Ašćerić shared her experiences and challenges while working within the Institute, particularly emphasizing the significance of the mentorship program currently being piloted through the CultHeRit project. 

During the discussion, participants highlighted the need for structured development of internship and mentorship programs, greater inclusion of various professional profiles, and more intensive cooperation between educational institutions and the cultural heritage protection system. It was emphasized that supporting young people is essential for the long-term development of the sector and that it is important to continue the dialogue initiated at this roundtable.