More than 60 young Serbs from eight European countries gathered in Paris for the Second Congress of Serbian Youth in the Diaspora, organized by the Federation of Young Serbs in Europe (Fédération des Jeunes Serbes d’Europe). Over the course of the two-day programme, discussions focused on how the diaspora can be seen not only as a community connected by shared identity, but also as a network of knowledge, experience, and professional connections. Participants also explored ways to help young people build stronger professional and social ties between Serbia and the countries where they currently live. At the invitation of the organizers, Returning Point was represented by Uroš Živković, one of the event’s speakers.
The congress took place at the Cultural Centre of the Republic of Serbia in Paris and was opened by the President of the Federation, Nemanja Dimitrijević. Bringing together participants from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, the event highlighted a shared need for more systematic, long-term support for young people in the diaspora, enabling them to more easily develop and implement their ideas, projects, and initiatives.
Circular migration as a practical opportunity
During the panel featuring Returning Point, participants were introduced to programmes that help young people from the diaspora turn circular migration—and, for some, a potential return to Serbia—from an abstract idea into a realistic and achievable opportunity. By supporting connections with the Serbian labour market, assisting with business registration, and encouraging entrepreneurship, these programmes make it easier for young professionals to apply the knowledge and experience they have gained abroad in Serbia, regardless of whether they are considering returning in the near future or later in life.
The strong interest shown by participants highlighted a clear need for practical information, relevant contacts, and reliable support as young people consider their next professional steps. The conversations that continued after the panel further demonstrated how relevant the topics of circular migration, professional engagement, and building lasting connections with Serbia have become for young members of the diaspora.
Young people seek stronger ties with Serbia
One of the largest delegations came from Switzerland, with eleven students representing a community of more than 120 Serbian academics studying at Swiss universities. Their president, Marko Jenić, described the Paris congress as a continuation of the dialogue launched in Vienna last year and expressed his expectation that this year’s conclusions would serve as a roadmap for strengthening cooperation and connections among young Serbs across Europe.
For Returning Point, gatherings like this provide an opportunity to engage with young people at a pivotal moment, as they begin shaping their future plans. Sharing experiences and providing timely, reliable information can be the first step toward making circular migration, professional cooperation with Serbia, or returning to Serbia realistic and achievable options.
