Facilitated by Culture Action Europe and the Michael Culture Association, the Action Group has been bringing together cultural institutions, artists and digital experts from across Europe since April 2024. Its mission is to ensure that digital and AI policies are shaped in an ethical, human-centred way and reflect the realities and values of cultural professionals, while informing policymakers on how to support the sector in the digital transition.
The newly released recommendations call for a strong, values-driven European approach to AI that recognises culture as a public good and a strategic pillar in the development of trustworthy and diverse AI systems. They emphasise the need for fair remuneration, transparency and consent in the use of cultural data, as well as stronger involvement of the CCS in AI governance and development processes.
The document also highlights the importance of equipping cultural professionals and institutions for the AI transition. It calls for investment in critical AI literacy, skills development and ethical frameworks, while safeguarding artistic freedom - including the right to opt out.
Finally, the recommendations stress the urgent need for structured dialogue and collaboration between policymakers, researchers and the cultural sector. They propose concrete measures such as expert groups, funding mechanisms, data infrastructures and collaborative platforms to ensure that AI development aligns with European cultural values, supports diversity and strengthens cultural resilience.
Continue the discussions at the annual European Museum Conference
Dive deeper into the topic of AI and how it's affecting museums and museum professionals at the 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 remain centred on people and purpose while becoming future-ready in a time of rapid technological and organisational change. As AI reshapes workflows, decision-making and institutional cultures - and as cyber threats increasingly affect cultural organisations - museums face pressing questions around leadership, preparedness and long-term resilience.
Beyond technology, the programme will also address the civic role of museums in fostering public trust, supporting digital and AI literacy, and engaging communities in open and informed dialogue about technological change. Get your ticket later in June to be part of exploring how museums can help visitors navigate complexity, strengthen critical thinking, and ensure that people remain at the heart of how culture responds to transformation.
