The first edition of the ECoC over Coffee programme was held in the festive atmosphere of Freedom Square in Nikšić, as part of the project Nikšić – European Capital of Culture 2030. The event brought together citizens, representatives of the cultural sector, and the interested public, with the aim of opening a dialogue on important social issues through informal conversation.
The guest of the meeting was Blagoje Šturanović, and the discussion focused on the topic of inclusion within the ECoC process, with particular emphasis on culture as a space of equal opportunities. Šturanović emphasized that the European Capital of Culture should not be a project intended for a narrow circle of people, but rather an open and accessible process in which all citizens can find their place.
During the conversation, it was highlighted that inclusion implies the active involvement of diverse social groups, respect for different needs, and the creation of cultural content that is accessible to everyone. Šturanović reminded participants that culture has the power to connect the community, reduce social barriers, and foster a sense of belonging, and that through the ECoC process Nikšić has the opportunity to permanently embed these values into its cultural development.
It was also noted that such gatherings contribute to the exchange of ideas and the strengthening of trust, as well as to a better understanding of the goals of ECoC 2030.
The ECoC over Coffee programme once again confirmed the importance of informal meeting formats that enable open discussion and direct communication, creating space for joint reflection on the future of Nikšić as a city of culture, dialogue, and equal opportunities.