Representatives of the Đerdap UNESCO Global Geopark on a professional visit to the Vis Archipelago

From October 19 to 23, 2026, the Vis Archipelago UNESCO Global Geopark hosted representatives from the Đerdap UNESCO Global Geopark in Serbia. This five-day professional visit was held as part of efforts to strengthen international cooperation, following the Cooperation Agreement signed by the two geoparks in April of this year.

The visit focused on the exchange of knowledge, experience, and best practices in the management of UNESCO Global Geoparks, the conservation and interpretation of geological heritage, education, and the sustainable development of local communities.

During their stay on the island of Vis, representatives from the Đerdap Geopark participated in professional field trips, educational activities, and joint meetings with representatives of the Vis Archipelago Geopark. The program provided an opportunity to learn about the geological, natural, and cultural values of the Vis Archipelago, as well as the approaches used for their conservation, interpretation, and presentation to visitors.

Special attention was given to exchanging experiences regarding the challenges geoparks face in their daily operations, including the management of protected and valuable areas, the development of educational content, the involvement of the local population, and the alignment of tourism activities with the principles of sustainable development.

Exchanging experience as a foundation for future cooperation

Although the Vis Archipelago and Đerdap differ in their geographical and geological features, both geoparks are united by a common mission to preserve geological heritage, promote scientific knowledge, and encourage the sustainable development of their regions.

The meeting provided an opportunity to compare different approaches to geopark management, share experiences from past work, and discuss possibilities for developing joint educational, professional, and project-based activities.

Strengthening the international network of UNESCO Geoparks

International networking and cooperation among geoparks are an important part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network (GGN). Through professional visits, knowledge exchange, and joint initiatives, geoparks strengthen their mutual capacities and develop new opportunities for the conservation and sustainable valorization of natural and cultural heritage.

The visit by the representatives of the Đerdap Geopark is a continuation of the partnership established in April 2026 and represents another step toward developing long-term cooperation between the two UNESCO Global Geoparks.

We would like to thank our colleagues from Đerdap UNESCO Global Geopark for their visit, the constructive exchange of experiences, and the pleasant time spent together, and we look forward to future joint activities.