Unfortunately, there are very few reasons for feeling excessively joyful, for it seems that the crisis we’ve succumbed to has only just begun. Nation states are becoming increasingly locked within their national contexts. Funding for culture, education, science and social justice is being severely diminished while the violation of basic human rights and dignity is becoming a rapidly growing social phenomenon. It seems that those of us working in the arena of culture also find it difficult to face the current crisis, whereas positive ideas for so-called “creative sustainable reform” have not been entirely successful in breaking through.

This year’s programme is in tune with the times we live in, as it demonstrates a profound engagement and strong political agenda through the expressive manners of the artists who delve into the issues of blind consumerism, who speak up about energy consumption and chaos and, finally, who don’t shy away from staging direct democracy.

Despite the increasingly rising levels of discontent and fear, we have no intention to give in to lethargic indifference. On the contrary: art and culture, and festivals such as the Mladi levi, should strive to gain even greater influence in the future. Thus, the Mladi levi festival is determined to courageously provide space for the confrontation of ideas and formation of new connections. This year, therefore, we will open our door even more widely than ever before, as we search for collective answers, compassion, empathy and also humour. Most importantly, we will search for responsibility in conceiving a world where quality of life and solidarity are embedded with purpose and meaning.

Nevenka Koprivšek