Zmagovalci nagrad Nada Dimić in Vesna Kesic za leto 2026

The announcement of the winners of the "Nada Dimić" and "Vesna Kesić" awards for 2026 has been officially released, marking another significant moment in the cultural and journalistic landscape of Croatia. The recipients were selected based on their contributions to societal engagement, investigative journalism, and advocacy for public interest. The ceremony will take place on Saturday, July 4th, in the park in front of the Booksa club in Zagreb, on a public space near the monument to Friar Grgi Martić. This location holds historical significance as it symbolizes resistance against oppression, aligning with the values these awards aim to celebrate.

Marija Maruška Mileta, an activist, was awarded the "Nada Dimić" prize for her involvement in organizing the gathering "United Against Fascism." Her participation led to her being reported for a violation, but she was ultimately acquitted by the Municipal Court in Zagreb after all charges were dropped. Her work highlights the importance of civic engagement and the courage required to challenge authoritarian tendencies. The award recognizes individuals who push boundaries and promote social change through their actions.

Another recipient of the "Nada Dimić" award is the initiative "Paths of Goran's Peacekeepers," which organizes a commemorative walk in Gorski Kotar aimed at promoting the legacy of peacebuilding in the region. This initiative emphasizes the value of remembering past efforts toward harmony and understanding, particularly in areas historically affected by conflict. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for dialogue and reconciliation.

Slavica Lukić, a journalist, received the "Vesna Kesić" award for her fearless and uncompromising journalism. Her long-term investigative work, particularly in the *Jutarnji List*, focused on issues related to public health and Medikola. These reports have contributed significantly to raising awareness about critical matters affecting the general population. The award honors journalists who use their platforms to expose power structures and advocate for transparency and accountability.

The "Nada Dimić" award, established in 2017 by the Fund for Others, is given to artists, collectives, and initiatives that question societal norms, break taboos, and create spaces for freedom, solidarity, and social transformation. The award includes a stone street cube, a symbol of resistance, along with a cash fund that recipients can either keep or pass on to younger creators and initiatives. This aspect underscores the foundation’s commitment to fostering future generations of changemakers.

The "Vesna Kesić" award, introduced in 2021, pays tribute to a journalist, activist, and one of the key figures behind the establishment of the "Nada Dimić" award. It celebrates the bravery of journalists who investigate power and defend the public interest. The organizers emphasize that this recognition is a testament to the vital role of independent media in holding institutions accountable and informing the public.

The ceremony will feature readings of official justifications by members of the jury—Danka Derifaj, Barbara Blasin, Sanja Despot, and Snježana Pavić—who will personally present the awards to the laureates. The event is expected to draw attention from both local and international observers interested in the intersection of art, activism, and journalism in Croatia. As the country continues to navigate complex political and social dynamics, such awards serve as important milestones in the ongoing discourse around human rights, freedom of expression, and community empowerment.