European literary festivals highlight Ukrainian authors and identity

Major literary festivals are taking place in Slovenia and Croatia, highlighting themes of identity and international dialogue.

The 41st Vilenica Festival in Slovenia is held from September 1 to 6, focusing on the fluidity of identity, belonging, and intercultural dialogue. Ukrainian writer and poet Serhiy Zhadan is the recipient of this year’s Vilenica Prize. The program also features a significant focus on contemporary Polish literature, including a new anthology of Polish works released by the Slovenian Writers' Association.

In Croatia, the 19th edition of the Vrisak festival is being held in Rijeka from September 12 to 19. The event features over fifty activities, including literary discussions and workshops. Ukrainian intellectual and writer Oksana Zabuzhko opened the festival, discussing her influential novel regarding national identity and postcolonial trauma. The festival aims to connect various arts and generations through a diverse international program.