Between 25 November and 10 December 2025, the Dawit Isaak Library in Malmö hosted a special edition of Routes of Resistance. This modular, multi-sited exhibition arrived in Sweden after travelling from Mexico, South Africa, Uganda, and Germany, serving as a profound exploration of how creators and activists fight dominant power structures by focusing on their own life experiences and creative activities.
The event featured selected items from the four distinct editions of the exhibition as they had developed across the world. These were followed by a digital archive projection that consolidated the various international routes into a collective narrative. The digital platform honours the exhibition’s inclusive spirit of resistance and creative freedom by offering downloadable materials that may be printed and turned into a zine. On-site or off-site, visitors were free to make their own zines or take materials to use elsewhere.
Photos: Fredrik Elg
Zine-makers: Isabelle Jannert, Esma Dizdar, Nikolai Linander, Selma Bertilsson, Sam Nilsson, Astrid Alm, Thea Metán, Klara Wictorin, Emelie Råborg Edler, Ester Agevik, Clara Edefeldt, Stina Zetterlund, Tyra Grip, Faye Patrick, Tuva Lindvall, Trinnie-Lee Vertus, Julia Musikka, Natali Panovski, Pia Krüger Lundberg
During the final session, in collaboration with the library youth workshops were organised, specifically designed to reflect on the core themes of the exhibition. The young participants explored several critical questions:
- The personal and societal impact of free and meaningful expression.
- The various methods—both overt and subtle—through which voices are censored.
- The specific pathways available to resist these forces, reclaim space, and write one’s own stories.
Listening to the young participants’ open senses and sharp remarks was the most inspiring aspect of the gatherings. We created zines and explored interactive spaces where people could express their feelings, ideas, and opinions about resistance and the future. It served as a powerful reminder of this reality: new routes arise when young people are allowed the freedom to think, create, and express themselves.
Initiated by SH|FT, this project is funded by The Swedish Postcode Lottery Foundation.
