Subject: Urgent Concerns Regarding EXPO 2027 in Serbia

Dear Members of the Bureau of International Expositions,

I am writing to express deep concern regarding the planned EXPO 2027 in Serbia, particularly in light of recent developments that highlight systemic issues of corruption, mismanagement, and civil unrest. These challenges raise significant questions about Serbia’s suitability as a host for such a prestigious international event.

Over the past year, Serbia has witnessed widespread protests in cities such as Belgrade and Novi Sad, with thousands demanding accountability, transparency, and justice. These demonstrations stem not only from allegations of electoral fraud but also from broader governance concerns, including mismanagement and corruption at various levels. A tragic example of these issues is the collapse of the canopy at the Novi Sad railway station, which resulted in the deaths of 15 individuals. Investigations have attributed this disaster to negligence and corruption within the construction sector, further underscoring the risks of holding a large-scale international event in such an environment.

The incident at Novi Sad serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by inadequate oversight and compromised safety standards. Reports indicate that poor regulatory enforcement and possibly corrupt procurement practices played a direct role in the collapse, prioritizing financial gain over public safety. This raises serious concerns about Serbia’s ability to provide a secure and reliable infrastructure for an event of EXPO’s magnitude.

Additionally, Serbia’s current political climate is marked by growing distrust toward governmental institutions, further fueling civil unrest. Student-led protests, particularly in response to the Novi Sad tragedy, reflect widespread dissatisfaction with the administration’s handling of crises. The potential for further unrest during EXPO 2027 cannot be ignored. If grievances remain unaddressed, the event could become a focal point for heightened demonstrations, posing risks to attendees and tarnishing the reputation of the Bureau of International Expositions (BIE).

Given these circumstances, I urge the BIE to reconsider Serbia as the host for EXPO 2027. While the event is intended to foster innovation, culture, and international collaboration, its success depends on a foundation of stability, integrity, and safety. Hosting EXPO in Serbia under the current conditions not only jeopardizes the security of participants but also raises ethical questions about endorsing a government struggling with governance and transparency issues.

I respectfully call for a reassessment of the host selection process, taking into account both safety implications and ethical considerations. The BIE has a responsibility to uphold the values of transparency, security, and global cooperation—principles that Serbia’s present situation challenges.

Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. I look forward to your response and hope for a decision that aligns with the high standards and values of the international community.

Sincerely,