“Talking Money” – 9th Forum of European Minority Regions Focuses on Cross-Border Cooperation

Border regions are often seen as the outer edges of the political map – yet in reality, they are places of encounter, exchange and economic progress. It is here that Europe’s national minorities make an important mark: they connect cultures, speak multiple languages and bring people and markets together. The potential of these regions is the focus of the 9th Forum of European Minority Regions, taking place next week from 26 to 28 June in Novi Sad/Újvidék/Nový Sad (Serbia).

Under the title “Talking Money – The Added Value of Minority Communities in Border Regions”, FUEN, together with the Alliance of Vojvodina Hungarians (VMSZ), is hosting a conference that offers a new perspective on Europe’s political and economic landscape. The event will revolve around two central questions: How can national minorities act as bridge-builders in cross-border cooperation? And what tangible economic benefits do they bring to border regions? These topics will be explored by experts from across Europe through practical examples and academic insights.

The forum will be held at the Parliament of the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina – a region home to 25 ethnic minorities and six official languages. The host city Novi Sad/Újvidék, which served as European Capital of Culture in 2022, stands as a symbol of lived linguistic and cultural diversity. High-ranking guests from Serbia and across Europe – including FUEN President and MEP Loránt Vincze, ministers from the Serbian government, as well as members of parliament and diplomats from the European Union – underline the significance of the event.

Throughout the programme, experts from South Tyrol, Navarre, Vojvodina, the Basque Country, the French-German border region and other areas will examine the economic role of minorities – be it in the labour market, tourism or infrastructure development. Successful models of cross-border cooperation will also be presented, including from the think tank Central European Service for Cross-Border Initiatives (CESCI) and the Association of European Border Regions (AEBR).

Another key focus is the role of minorities in the EU accession process – a topic of particular relevance for Southeast Europe. Unconventional approaches will also be explored, such as the role of sport in building bridges across borders – with contributions from Serbia, Croatia, Italy and the United Kingdom.

In addition to lectures and discussions, the forum, as always, offers space for personal encounters, shared exploration of the region and a strong European network. An excursion to the multilingual city of Subotica/Szabadka and a communal dinner will highlight what lies at the heart of the forum: embracing diversity and looking beyond national boundaries – politically, culturally and economically.

Detailed information on the programme, invited experts and the registration form can be found on the official website of the forum: forum.fuen.org