In the Serbian Veljko Dugošević Primary School in Turija, democracy is not just a subject in the textbook; it’s part of daily life. Pupils debate, compromise, take initiative, and share responsibility for their community. Over time, this small rural school has become a model for how democratic values can take root and flourish.
Focusing on human dignity, conflict resolution and responsibility, the programme has been transformative for director Sofia Milenković.
“Conflicts are no longer left to escalate. Pupils talk things through, listen to different perspectives, and work toward compromise. They are not just passive observers, but active participants in shaping school life. Such engagement boosts confidence and strengthens ties with the local community. I believe this is the most valuable contribution we are making to our society.”
Sanela Ankić, a municipal council member in charge of education, describes the school as a “recognised example” for others through strong involvement of parents and commitment to preparing children who “respect differences, value other people’s opinions, and strive for a better future.” The municipality wholeheartedly supports the work because one day, "these same children will inherit local leadership roles and, hopefully, correct the mistakes of the past."
In the classroom, teachers have woven democratic skills into every subject. Maths teacher Nebojša Ilić uses group work and real-life projects to encourage responsibility and teamwork. When disagreements arise, students are guided toward discussion and compromise. Mistakes become opportunities for joint problem-solving, not blame. “This way of teaching makes them more mature, responsible, and empathetic,” he says.
These lessons are evident in the pupils’ own actions. Seventh-grader Mija Stević recalls a class vote on how to improve the schoolyard — from benches and swings to planting trees and flowers — where everyone, including teachers and parents, worked together on the chosen ideas. “I realised that listening to others, respecting different opinions, and working together really matters,” she says. Responsibility has become central to the way students approach school life: it’s not just about finishing homework, but also honesty, respect, and caring for shared spaces. “Responsibility means we all work together to make the school a better place,” Mija explains.
Since joining the Council of Europe’s education programme in 2017, first as a pilot school and later as a mentor, Veljko Dugošević has become a reference point in Serbia for democratic culture in education and has opened a Council of Europe Library with donated books. But its greatest achievements may be the everyday moments: a child admitting a mistake instead of hiding it, classmates solving a dispute without anger: a community shaping its school together.
This initiative is carried out within the action “Quality education for all” which is part of the joint European Union and Council of Europe programme “Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye”.
The Council of Europe is working towards a New Democratic Pact for Europe, aimed at boosting democracy across it 46 member states: Educating and Practicing democracy is one of its three pillars of the ongoing consultation to connect solutions to the democratic backsliding. Read more
