What Awaits Us Tomorrow – A Dialogue on the Future of Equality in Serbia

The conference titled "What Awaits Us Tomorrow – A Dialogue on the Future of Equality in Serbia" was held on March 26, 2025, at the Metropol Palace Hotel in Belgrade. The conference was organized by the Center for Research and Development of Society IDEAS, in partnership with the British Embassy in Belgrade.
In recent years, Serbia has taken various legislative and strategic steps to improve equality and human rights. Despite these efforts, many challenges still exist—challenges that require joint reflection and collaborative action from all social actors to ensure a sustainable future for the equality of all citizens. The global context further complicates the situation, where democratic values and fundamental human rights are under unprecedented pressure.
Natasha Todorović from the Serbian Red Cross was invited to speak about the equality of older citizens. She pointed out that age is a multiplier of discrimination, increasing already existing inequalities that have been present throughout life. Furthermore, she emphasized the importance of paying attention to older people living in rural areas, so-called "modern deserts," as well as to older people without pensions who live in poverty.
Additionally, Natasha Todorović stressed the need to be cautious regarding digitalization, which can increase the already existing inequality in society. She also highlighted the importance of preventing violence against the elderly, as, although it is not often discussed, that does not mean it does not exist.
In conclusion, Natasha Todorović, an expert associate of the Serbian Red Cross, stated that ageism is the only form of discrimination where we ourselves discriminate against our future selves. She also pointed out the lack of awareness in all earlier groups and emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to help those living in difficult conditions, urging everyone to work together in addressing these issues.
