I the 1990s – deeply affected by the dissolution of the communist dictatorships in Eastern Europe – the Balkans were blown apart by a bloody civil war rooted in the earliest history of the region. Since then the republics of Bosnia-Hercegovina, Serbia and Kosovo have tried to find their own place in a new world order and with the memories of mad crimes against humanity imprinted in their history and cultural consciousness.
Together with NGOs, human rights organisations and local politicians we will examine the root causes of the conflict, navigate the cultural peculiarities and commonalities, and not least try and find out what the future holds for the peoples of the region.
The future of the Balkans
Based in the capitals of Sarajevo (Bosnia-Hercegovina) and Belgrade (Serbia) we will talk with local students. Many are queuing up to leave the Balkans to seek new opportunities in Western Europe, and we will ask them what are their dreams and thoughts? What are their fears? What do they hope for? We’ll examine the state of human rights for women and minority groups, freedom of the press, and the consequences of the rise of national-conservatism in Western Balkan. During the study trip we will also visit Srebrenica, the center of one of the conflict’s most brutal genocides.
During our travels we will have the opportunity to experience the marvelous landscapes, ranging from mountains, stretches of golden fields, western and eastern inspired architecture, colourful bazars and city life.
What I remember best is the atmosphere. The atmosphere among us who attended the school, among the teachers, in the hallways, in the dining hall, the living room, and the lecture hall. There was a feeling of home and calm, but at the same time always a cozy buzz of life and happy friends.
Gertrud
I have never before experienced a community that was so full of initiative, creative, and embracing. It was crazy what we achieved together: fun theme parties, weekend activities, a revue, and so much more.
Mads Emil
What I’ve especially learned at the folk high school is that “being yourself," isn’t about doing something specific – but about not trying to do something specific. It’s about accepting how you function. It’s really hard, but it’s valuable work.
Albert
Travel dates
Spring 2026: March 10 to 19.
Autumn 2026: September 29 to October 8.
Traveling teachers
Claus Staal
Principal
Asker Bjørk Hansen
Teacher