EU Capitals of Culture: a European success story to continue until 2033

European Parliament’s Culture Committee approves extension and improvement of EU Capital of Culture programme

"Given its success, the European Capital of Culture programme will continue until 2033, representing a great opportunity for the designated cities. However, it will be necessary to further strengthen the policy of the European dimension, very often overlooked, and give concerted attention to some long-term policies. In addition to a cultural programme, the cities must present a schedule of activities to attract funding", said Marco Scurria MEP, EPP Group Coordinator in the Culture Committee and Rapporteur of the European Capital of Culture Report.

"In times of such deep economic uncertainty when many are doubting values, it is essential to create incentives for long-term and well-organised cultural initiatives. Action on the European Capital of Culture will have to aim at involving all segments of society in cultural activities. The event will have to be an opportunity to improve cooperation, promote dialogue at European level, highlighting at the same time a strong feeling of belonging to the community. We need to tangibly underline the European common roots at this level", explained Marco Scurria.

The European Capitals of Culture were created in 1985. They were officially transformed into a European Union action in 1999 in order to make the initiative more effective and new criteria and selection procedures were established. The rules were then renewed in 2006 in order to develop the effectiveness of the initiative further, by stimulating competition between the cities and fostering the quality of the bids. The new legal base for the continuation of the European Capitals of Culture should be adopted in 2013 in order to ensure a smooth transition in 2020.