Born out of student protests in 2000, EXIT Festival has grown into one of the most respected and celebrated music events worldwide. But today, the iconic festival faces one of the most serious challenges in its 25-year history.
After openly supporting the recent mass student protests in Serbia, EXIT has come under severe government pressure. Authorities have withdrawn more than €1.5 million in public funding and government-linked sponsorships, while political and security threats have increased — all aimed at silencing the festival and forcing it toward financial collapse.
Fighting for Freedom and Independence
To protect its independence and mission, EXIT has launched a global crowdfunding campaign at https://save.exitfest.org/. The campaign’s goal is to ensure the festival’s immediate stability and safeguard over 100 permanent jobs within the organization. These are individuals who, despite immense pressure, chose to stand with Serbia’s student movement, knowing full well the risks.
Supporters worldwide can help by donating directly or purchasing future festival tickets and digital assets via https://save.exitfest.org/. Every contribution strengthens EXIT’s fight to keep art and culture free from political influence.
Founder Speaks Out
Dušan Kovačević, founder of the EXIT Festival Group, highlighted the historical importance of this stand:
“This year’s EXIT Festival marked a defining moment — when one music festival dared to defy intense government pressure aimed at silencing free speech and suppressing our support for Serbia’s courageous students. We proved that unity, solidarity, and love are stronger than fear, and that art cannot be silenced.
Through this crowdfunding campaign, we are fighting for the independence of an entire organization and the people behind it. We believe this is the moment for the music industry to unite, protect one of its own, and show that together we are stronger than any government. By defending EXIT’s freedom, we defend the freedom of all artists, music professionals, and cultural organizations worldwide.”
His words reflect EXIT’s founding principle: “The fight for freedom for one is the fight for freedom for all.”
A Legacy of Resistance and Art
Founded during a time of political unrest, EXIT was born from a dream of freedom, fueled by young people determined to speak out against the Balkan wars and authoritarian rule.
Over the years, EXIT has evolved into a symbol of unity, freedom, and cultural activism. It has twice won Best Major Festival at the European Festival Awards and currently holds the Take a Stand Award, which honors festivals that champion human rights, social justice, and positive change.
By contributing to the campaign at https://save.exitfest.org/, supporters are not just helping one festival — they are defending the global music community’s right to independence and free expression.