Volunteer nation: Youth work actions in Yugoslavia | In-person

What happens when people come together to build something bigger than themselves?

Volunteering is widely recognised for its positive emotional, health, and skill-building benefits. In this talk, urban researcher and landscape architect Dr Miza Moreau explores the long-term impact of large-scale volunteering through the story of Yugoslavia’s Youth Work Actions - a remarkable movement that mobilised young people to build infrastructure, shape cities, and foster social solidarity.

The event begins with a 30-minute presentation on the role Youth Work Actions played in urbanisation and in promoting a vision of an equitable and inclusive society despite occasional challenges and cynicism they faced. It will also reflect on the legacy these actions continue to have across now deeply divided region of the former Yugoslavia today.

The presentation will be followed by an open discussion with the audience on what lessons might be drawn from this history to support community-led revitalisation efforts in Scotland.

Important points to note

• This event is suitable for age 16+
• Filming: Livestreaming and photography may take place at this event. Please let a member of the RSE Public Engagement team know if you do not want to be photographed. Recorded events will be made available on the RSE YouTube channel.
• Covid-19: If you would like to wear a face mask, please feel comfortable to do so at our events. Please be mindful of other participants and stay at home if you have Covid symptoms or have tested positive for Covid-19.

SPEAKER

Dr Miza Moreau

Urban Researcher and Landscape Architect, Leverhulme Research Fellowship University of Glasgow

Dr Moreau's work examines the cultural meanings and functional potentials of urbanised landscapes. As a Leverhulme Fellow, she studies the role of women and their representation in the co-production of urban landscapes in Glasgow. She also practiced as a landscape architect and urban designer in the USA and Australia. She is originally from Sarajevo, Bosnia, and Herzegovina (formerly one of the six republics of Yugoslavia).

About the Curious festival

The RSE’s free Curious festival of knowledge is back, from Saturday 6 − Saturday 14 September 2025!

Curious is a festival of ideas – open to all and driven by connection, conversation, and discovery. It’s a chance to explore ideas and questions that matter with some of Scotland’s leading thinkers – and with people who bring their own lived experiences, insights, and curiosity to the table.

From science and society to arts and innovation, the programme spans a wide range of topics – with each event designed to spark dialogue, invite different perspectives, and encourage knowledge exchange.

Curious is an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, plus those who see the world differently, and be part of discussions where everyone is welcome to share, learn, and be inspired. Full programme of events here.

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