Next to the political commitment, the joint declaration, singed on 18 June 2026, also reaffirms the EU’s role in safeguarding cultural and linguistic diversity and integrating cultural considerations across policy areas.
Placing culture at the centre of the European project
The signatories emphasise the importance of placing culture at the heart of the European project. The declaration highlights commitments to protect artistic freedom, promote cultural diversity and inclusion, and ensure fair working conditions for artists and cultural professionals. It also underlines the need to support the cultural and creative sectors through funding, innovation and capacity building, while strengthening Europe’s position as a global cultural actor.
- Access the Joint declaration
- Get an overview in the Factsheet
- Learn more in the press release
The Declaration builds on the European Commission’s 2025 Culture Compass for Europe and underscores the importance of culture for people, communities and the EU.
Recognising culture’s broader impact
The declaration also acknowledges the wider role of culture in supporting European values and societal development. Cultural and creative sectors are recognised for their contribution to fostering a shared European identity and upholding fundamental values such as freedom, equality and respect for human rights.
Furthermore, culture is identified as a key factor in addressing contemporary challenges, including geopolitical tensions, climate change, digital transformation, social inequality and mental health. The declaration also highlights its contribution to economic growth, innovation, territorial cohesion and sustainability.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission shared: “Our culture is at the core of our identity. As well as being a source of Europe’s economic and geopolitical strength. Today, we commit to protecting artistic freedom and making art accessible to all citizens - especially our youth. Culture must remain a force for unity and learning.”
Twelve principles for action
The commitments set out in the declaration are structured around twelve overarching principles.
These include measures to:
- Protect freedom of expression and improve working conditions in the cultural sector
- Promote ethical and human‑centred approaches to artificial intelligence
- Enhance access to culture and cultural professions, particularly for young and marginalised groups
- Strengthen arts education and opportunities for emerging artists
- Highlight the role of culture in health and wellbeing, regional development and environmental sustainability
- Safeguard and promote Europe’s cultural and linguistic diversity, including through the use of digital technologies for cultural heritage preservation
A framework for future policy
NEMO finds that the declaration signals a renewed commitment from EU institutions to integrating culture across policy areas while recognising its strategic importance for Europe’s future. As discussions on the next EU budget and policy frameworks continue, it provides a reference point for strengthening support for culture at European level.
