Festival of Queer and Feminist Culture Smoqua, taking place from October 1st to 3rd 2026, brings to Rijeka a space for dialogue on rights, equality, activism, and social change. Smoqua will gather activists from Croatia and the region who will, through discussions and sharing of experiences, address key issues regarding the struggle for LGBTIQ+ rights, institutional advocacy, women's empowerment, as well as combating violence against women and human trafficking.
Here is what awaits us:
Panel: "Institutional Struggle of LGBTIQ+ Activism: How Do We Achieve Change?"
October 1 | 18:00 – 19:00
Location: Rijeka City Library (Viktora Cara Emina 1)
Social change happens through protests, campaigns, and community work, but also through strategic dialogue with institutions. How do we recognize the right moment for cooperation, and when is a more critical approach necessary? How do we advocate for LGBTIQ+ rights at the local, national, and international levels?
Activists from different countries will discuss these questions, sharing their experiences in advancing LGBTIQ+ rights and collaborating with institutions.
Panelists (moderated by Iva Davorija):
→ Jelena Vasiljević, executive Director of the Rainbow Ignite organization and long-time activist in the LGBTIQ+ and feminist movement in Serbia.
→ Ana Lilik, head of the Legal Counseling Program at Legebitra, an association working to improve LGBTIQ+ rights in Slovenia.
→ Samanta Slana, youth Delegate to the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe on behalf of the Republic of Croatia.
→ Vanessa Coglitore, president of Égalité, an association providing support to LGBTIQ+ employees in European Union institutions since 1993.
Discussion: "Empowering Girls, Young Women, and the Fight Against Human Trafficking"
October 3 | 15:00 – 16:00
Art-kvart Benčić, in front of Rijeka City Library, Viktora Cara Emina 1
The Center for Girls (Centar za devojke) from Niš brings years of experience working with women from marginalized communities. Through an open discussion, the focus will be on their key activities in combating human trafficking and discrimination.
Participants will present how they work on empowering girls and women and improving the quality of life for survivors of violence through education, activism, and direct psychological support.
Check out entire Smoqua festival programme HERE.
