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EXIT Festival Launches “Save EXIT Freedom” Campaign
Facing political pressure in Serbia, EXIT fights to protect artistic freedom through global support
The world-renowned EXIT Festival has launched a global campaign called “Save EXIT Freedom” in response to mounting political pressure from the Serbian government. Following the festival’s public support of mass student protests, over €1.5 million in public funding and state-controlled sponsorships were abruptly withdrawn. Now, EXIT faces serious financial, political, and security threats as it fights to protect its legacy and independence.
A Festival Born from Protest
EXIT Festival began in 2000 as part of a student movement against the regime of Slobodan Milošević. Built on values of freedom, unity, and cultural resistance, it has since become one of the world’s leading music festivals. The event has twice won Best Major Festival at the European Festival Awards and currently holds the Take a Stand Award, which honors festivals that promote social justice, human rights, and positive change.
Government Retaliation Against Cultural Dissent
By supporting today’s student-led protests in Serbia, EXIT returned to its activist roots. But that solidarity has come at a high price. The Serbian government responded by cutting all public support, threatening the festival’s future and attempting to silence one of the most powerful cultural voices in the Balkans.
The festival is now facing a deliberate effort to weaken and shut down its operations.
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Global Crowdfunding Campaign Now Live
To resist this attack and ensure its future, the festival has launched a crowdfunding campaign at save.exitfest.org. The initiative aims to secure immediate financial stability and protect over 100 permanent jobs—individuals who courageously chose to stand for freedom and support the youth movement, even under the threat of losing everything.
Supporters can donate directly, purchase future tickets, or invest in digital assets that contribute to the sustainability of the EXIT organization.
Official Statement from the Founder
EXIT Festival founder Dušan Kovačević shared a powerful message:
“EXIT has become a historic symbol of resistance. A festival that dared to stand against state repression and speak out in support of brave students. We proved that unity, love, and solidarity are stronger than fear—and that art cannot be silenced.”
He added:
“This crowdfunding campaign defends not just EXIT, but the freedom of all cultural organizations and professionals worldwide. Now is the time for the global music industry to stand together, protect one of its own, and show that we are stronger than any government that seeks to control us. The fight for one is the fight for all.”
Why This Moment Matters
EXIT’s story is not just about one festival in Serbia—it’s about the global fight for freedom of expression in art and culture. Supporting the “Save EXIT Freedom” campaign sends a clear message: music must remain a free space for creativity, resistance, and truth.