The Forum of Slavic Cultures proudly announces the opening of registration for this year’s 11th edition of the Živa Awards, themed Echoes of Heritage and the Future of Museums. The event will take place from October 8 to 12, 2025, in the historic city of Trebinje, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

For over a decade, the Živa Awards have celebrated outstanding achievements in preserving and promoting Slavic cultural heritage, bringing together museums and heritage institutions from across the Slavic world and beyond. Named after the Slavic goddess Živa – symbolizing life, beauty, vitality, and fertility – the award embodies the spirit and values of Slavic cultures. Živa also serves as a vibrant platform for exchange and promotion, highlighting innovative approaches, openness, public accessibility, social impact, and the ongoing development of museological ideas throughout Slavic countries and the wider region.

This year’s edition will explore how heritage inspires museums to go beyond preserving the past and become co-creators of a diverse, inclusive, and future-oriented museology. The theme reflects on how the past – like an “echo” – is present in contemporary museum practices, as showcased by the excellent museums nominated for the award.

The conference programme will feature expert lectures, thematic panels, cultural tours, and excellent networking opportunities. The registration fee covers participation in all official Živa Award events, printed materials, refreshments and meals, evening receptions, thematic dinners, participation in the marketplace, and a full-day guided excursion.

The Forum of Slavic Cultures is organising the event in cooperation with the City of Trebinje, the Museum of Herzegovina in Trebinje, the Museum of Contemporary Art of Republic of Srpska, and the European Museum Academy (EMA).

Registration is now open!
Early Bird registration is available until August 30, 2025
Final registration deadline: September 30, 2025