The construction of EXPO 2027 facilities in Serbia is progressing, but the project’s future remains uncertain as the country experiences ongoing protests and socio-political instability. For nearly three months, students across 240 cities have been protesting in support of demands from four universities, further escalating tensions. These protests, alongside blocked faculties and boycotted shops, have led to concerns that Serbia may not be in a position to host the major international event.
Experts such as Boško Jakšić, a foreign policy analyst, acknowledge that while EXPO 2027 may not be immediately canceled, its future could be threatened by the political and social crisis, as well as corruption tied to the project. Jakšić highlights that EXPO is a key project for the government, with billions of euros potentially tied to corruption scandals related to the event. While the government is dedicated to completing the project, student protests are calling attention to these issues.
Miša Brkić, an economic journalist, draws parallels to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where international condemnation regarding worker rights did not prevent the event. Brkić suggests that EXPO 2027 could still be canceled by organizers if they assess that Serbia cannot complete the required infrastructure on time or if safety conditions are inadequate. However, he notes that the political situation in Serbia, particularly with ongoing student protests, may not have a direct impact on the EXPO’s status unless there is intervention from external parties, like European courts.
Economist Ivan Nikolić believes the political leadership in Serbia is unlikely to change the project’s course at this point, as EXPO 2027 is already a state obligation. He argues that the project’s momentum is too far along to reverse, even amid political turmoil.
Despite calls from some opposition figures and citizens to halt the project, the EXPO 2027 appears to be progressing, albeit with significant ongoing political challenges.
