Putting culture at the heart of EU international relations

The European Commission adopts a Strategy for international cultural relations which will contribute to making the EU a stronger global actor. The Strategy aims at encouraging cultural cooperation between the EU and its partner countries.

The Strategy for international cultural relations presented by the European Commission and the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini proposes a strategic framework for deeper and more effective international cultural relations. The Communication adopted also puts forward  a new model for cooperation with Member States, national cultural institutes, private and public operators from the EU and its partner countries, increasing opportunities, creating synergies and maximising socio-economic benefits.

The Commission considers that Culture can play an important role in the EU’s foreign policy. Cultural cooperation counters stereotypes and prejudice by nurturing dialogue, open-mindedness, dignity and mutual respect.

This Communication is in line with the ninth priority outlined by European Commission President Juncker in his 2014 Political Guidelines and reflecting the ambition of the EU’s forthcoming Global Strategy being prepared by the High Representative. The Commission has also announced that it will propose to the European Parliament and the Council of the EU to organise a European Year of Cultural Heritage in 2018.