Representatives of the Red Cross of Serbia participated from 12 to 14 November 2025 in the 18th Meeting of the Standing Working Group on Ageing (SWGA) of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), held at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

The meeting brought together representatives of governments, international organizations, academia and civil society to exchange experiences and define priorities of European ageing policy, with a particular focus on the implementation of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing and preparations for the upcoming Ministerial Conference on Ageing in 2027.

On the first day of the meeting, during the session dedicated to strengthening international cooperation and exchanging innovative approaches, Nataša Todorović, Expert Associate of the Red Cross of Serbia, presented the European programme Age Against the Machine – European Intergenerational Theatre Network on Ageism, implemented by the Red Cross of Serbia as the expert partner.

The programme focuses on combating ageism through socially engaged theatre, research and public advocacy, and is supported by the EU CERV Programme. The project is led by the Novi Sad – European Capital of Culture Foundation, while the Red Cross of Serbia serves as the expert institution on age discrimination.

In her presentation, she highlighted why theatre is a powerful tool in countering stereotypes about older people:

• Human connection – theatre transforms complex issues into relatable, personal stories
• Dialogue, not monologue – the audience is invited to think, participate and question
• Community authorship – roles are played by citizens, not professional actors
• Catalyst for change – it brings together emotion, lived experience and public policy

The presentation generated significant interest among participants, especially in the context of ongoing European discussions on preventing discrimination, strengthening social inclusion and promoting intergenerational cooperation.