Within the framework of the Action Plan of visits to the beneficiaries of approved funds, Sanja Arnautović, Head of the Department for Institutions and Associations in the Field of Culture in the Division of Culture of the Federal Ministry of Culture and Sports, carried out on 11 November 2025 supervision of the implementation of the project titled Sarajevo Fest 2025 by the beneficiary Center for Culture and Development of Performing Arts, Music and Literature, as well as the development of democracy through cultural activities (EAST WEST CENTER) Sarajevo. The project was supported from the Ministry’s Transfer for Culture of Importance to the Federation of BiH, Priority Area 1.4: Amateur Music, Music-Stage and Theatre Festivals – members of the European Festivals Association.

The project Sarajevo Fest 2025 represents one of the most significant international events in the field of performing, musical, and literary arts. This year’s edition of the Festival carried a strong peace-building and cultural-dialogue dimension, marking 30 years since the signing of the Dayton PEace Agreement and 80 years since the end of the Second World War.

The Festival was held in Sarajevo from 5 to 19 September 2025, through three programme segments: the Artistic Forum, the Forum, and the Youth Forum, encompassing a wide range of artistic productions, international guest performances, panel discussions, workshops, and educational content.

During the supervision, a review was conducted of the complete documentation, including media releases, the narrative report, and promotional materials, confirming that all activities planned by the project had been fully implemented, in accordance with contractual obligations and the implementation timeline.

Upon completion of administrative procedures, the beneficiary will submit to the Ministry the complete financial report, in line with prescribed deadlines and internal procedures.

The project Sarajevo Fest 2025 significantly contributes to the international visibility of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s cultural production, strengthens intercultural exchange, and affirms Sarajevo as a regional hub of contemporary art and dialogue, thereby fully justifying the inclusion of the manifestation in the priority area of the European Festivals Association.