The International Bureau of Exhibitions (BIE) has issued a stark warning to Serbia regarding the potential cancellation of the EXPO 2027, a major international event scheduled to take place in Belgrade from May 15 to August 15, 2027. The BIE cautioned that if the future Serbian government decides to withdraw from hosting the event, the country would face serious financial and legal repercussions, including the loss of its host country status. This warning comes as Serbia approaches parliamentary elections on October 25, 2026, which could result in a change of government.

The BIE emphasized that the EXPO 2027 is a long-term national project that transcends any single electoral cycle. The organization underscored that Serbia’s commitment to hosting the event is an international obligation, regardless of governmental changes. The BIE highlighted that the project had received support from across the Serbian political spectrum, although it was not specified how opposition parties had expressed their backing beyond direct communication with BIE representatives.

Should Serbia cancel the EXPO, it would be required to compensate participating countries for justified expenses incurred in preparation for the event. Additionally, Serbia would need to cover costs owed to the BIE and fulfill obligations stemming from contracts and Serbian law. The BIE noted that the cancellation would also have practical consequences, given the extensive preparations involving construction, procurement, employment, transportation, and infrastructure.

The potential cancellation could tarnish Serbia’s reputation, affecting its credibility in future international commitments. The BIE has a framework in place to handle such situations, including a mechanism for determining compensation for official participants. The Executive Committee would review claims and evidence, with the General Assembly determining the compensation amounts.

The BIE also addressed the possibility of a government change in Serbia, stating that obligations related to the EXPO are the responsibility of the host country, independent of government transitions. The organization assured that it would closely monitor any developments that could impact the event’s organization and respond through its governance and oversight mechanisms.

The EXPO 2027 in Belgrade, themed “Play for Humanity: Sports and Music for All,” is expected to attract participation from over 140 countries, including the United States and Japan. The event involves significant infrastructure development, including the construction of a new complex in Surčin, a national stadium, and associated facilities. The preparations also require the engagement of over 20,000 volunteers, with 10,000 already registered from 119 countries.

The potential financial implications of the EXPO have been a point of contention, with critics like retired professor Danica Popović calling for its cancellation due to alleged corruption and mismanagement. Concerns have been raised about the project’s escalating costs, initially estimated at one billion euros, now potentially reaching twelve billion euros.

As Serbia approaches its parliamentary elections, the future of the EXPO 2027 remains uncertain. The outcome of the elections could significantly influence the government’s stance on the event, with the lack of clarity on how opposition parties plan to address the EXPO adding to the uncertainty. The BIE’s warning underscores the high stakes involved in the decision to proceed with or cancel the EXPO, both in terms of financial liabilities and Serbia’s international reputation.