Coordinated by the Future of Europe cohort, the letter was published ahead of the European Council meeting 15–16 October 2026 and is supported by hundreds of organisations across Europe, NEMO being one of them. The signatories urge member states to preserve AgoraEU 's budget at no less than the European Commission's proposed €8.58 billion and to move towards the higher funding level proposed by the European Parliament.
Recognising AgoraEU as critical infrastructure
The letter calls for AgoraEU to be recognised as critical infrastructure for Europe’s collective future since the programme will support the organisations and networks that help sustain democratic societies, including cultural and creative organisations, audiovisual production, independent journalism and civil society initiatives. These sectors play an important role in enabling people to access reliable information, participate in public life, understand their rights and engage with their communities.
The letter argues that reducing investment in these areas would have consequences far beyond the cultural sector, particularly at a time when Europe is facing challenges related to disinformation, social fragmentation and democratic resilience.
Culture, democracy and competitiveness
The letter also challenges the notion that investment in culture, media and civil society should be weighed against Europe’s competitiveness agenda. Instead, it argues that strong communities, trusted information, civic participation and cultural exchange are fundamental components of a resilient and competitive Europe.
As a signatory, NEMO supports the call to protect AgoraEU 's budget and to recognise the programme as a long-term investment in Europe’s cultural, democratic and social infrastructure.
- Access and read the open letter Defend AgoraEU: Invest in European Citizens’ Future
Stand up for AgoraEU: Protect culture, media and democracy
On 29 October at 09:30 in Brussels, Culture Action Europe is organising a public protest in front of the EU institutions to call for stopping the 30% cut to AgoraEU, securing at least €10 billion for culture, media and democracy, and to protect artistic and media freedom, independence and pluralism.
- If you’re in Brussels, learn more on the website of Culture Action Europe
