FACE participated in the celebrations marking the 130th anniversary of the Hunting Association of Serbia, joining Serbian hunters, government representatives and international guests to celebrate a remarkable history of hunting traditions, wildlife management and conservation.

Founded on 13 October 1896 in Brzan, near Lapovo, in central Serbia, the association has played a central role in developing organised hunting in the country. Today, it represents more than 80,000 hunters, reflecting the importance of hunting in Serbian society, particularly in rural communities.

The anniversary programme included a reception with Serbia's Minister of Agriculture, Dragan Glamočić, in Lapovo, providing an opportunity to discuss the importance of sustainable hunting, wildlife conservation and the challenges facing hunters and rural communities.

A particularly symbolic moment was the return to the historic hunting grounds of Rogot, near Batočina, where organised hunting in Serbia first took shape 130 years ago. The celebrations included the unveiling of a commemorative plaque and an official ceremony bringing together representatives of hunting associations and institutions from Serbia and abroad.

Beyond the official programme, the visit offered an opportunity to experience Serbia's rich rural heritage and hospitality. Traditional Serbian food, music and folk dancing highlighted the strong cultural and social connections that hunting continues to foster across generations.

The anniversary was not only a celebration of the past but also a reminder of the important role hunters play in managing wildlife populations, protecting natural habitats and maintaining the vitality of rural communities.