NEMO Secretary General Julia Pagel represented the network and contributed the museum perspective to discussions, which form part of the European Commission’s preparations for a future AI strategy for the cultural and creative sectors, expected in early 2027.
Shaping the EU’s approach to AI and culture
The workshop highlighted the European Commission’s evolving approach to AI and culture, structured around the principles of innovation, protection and empowerment. The aim is to support the adoption of AI technologies while safeguarding creativity, cultural diversity, intellectual property rights and public trust. Key policy themes discussed included copyright, transparency and the impact of AI on employment in the cultural sector.
NEMO highlights the needs of museums
During the workshop, NEMO emphasised that AI represents a broad structural transformation that affects how culture is created, accessed, interpreted and governed. From the perspective of museums, supporting this transition requires more than technological solutions.
NEMO highlighted the need for investment in leadership, skills development and organisational capacity, enabling museums to make informed decisions about the use of AI. The importance of a coordinated European approach was also underlined, particularly to improve access to knowledge, training opportunities and best practices across the sector.
Museums as trusted actors in the AI landscape
NEMO also stressed the active role museums can play in shaping AI in the public interest. As trusted institutions, museums can contribute high‑quality cultural data, promote AI literacy, and support democratic dialogue around emerging technologies.
At the same time, the need for stronger frameworks was highlighted, including:
- Better protection of digital cultural data
- Greater transparency in the use of heritage collections in AI systems
- Increased focus on cybersecurity and institutional resilience
Contributing to future policy development
The workshop forms part of an ongoing consultation process feeding into the European Commission’s future AI strategy for the cultural and creative sectors. By bringing forward the museum sector’s perspective, NEMO contributes to ensuring that upcoming policy frameworks recognise both the opportunities and challenges of AI for cultural heritage institutions.
Continuing the discussion at NEMO’s European Museum Conference 2026
The discussion will continue at the NEMO European Museum Conference 2026 – Human after all: Museums in the wake of AI, taking place from 11–13 October 2026 in Vilnius, Lithuania. The conference will explore how museums can respond to AI‑driven transformation while maintaining a strong focus on human values, public trust and democratic responsibility. Bringing together museum professionals and experts from across Europe, the programme will offer space for further reflection on AI, digital resilience and the evolving role of museums in a rapidly changing environment.
- Book your ticket now to secure your spot.
