Brussels, 18 June 2026

ICOM Europe welcomes the signing of the Joint Declaration “Europe for Culture – Culture for Europe” by the Presidents of the European Commission, the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union. The declaration represents a landmark moment for European cultural policy and signals a renewed political commitment to recognising culture as a strategic priority for Europe’s future.

For the first time, the three principal EU institutions have jointly endorsed a common vision that places culture and cultural heritage at the centre of Europe’s democratic, social, economic and environmental ambitions. The declaration underscores the importance of culture as a shared European value and as a driver of resilience, innovation, participation and cohesion across the continent.

A Shared Vision for Culture in Europe

The Joint Declaration affirms that culture is essential to the European project and to the well-being of its citizens. It recognises the richness of Europe’s cultural and linguistic diversity while highlighting the need to strengthen cultural rights, broaden access to culture and support artistic freedom.

The document calls for greater integration of cultural considerations across European policies and emphasises the contribution of culture to democratic life, social inclusion, education, innovation and sustainable development. It also stresses the importance of supporting artists, cultural professionals and cultural institutions in addressing both current and future challenges.

Culture as a Resource for Resilience and Transformation

At a time of profound geopolitical, technological and environmental change, the declaration acknowledges the role of culture in fostering dialogue, critical thinking and mutual understanding. It recognises that culture contributes to resilient societies by strengthening democratic values, encouraging civic participation and promoting a sense of belonging.

The declaration further highlights the importance of safeguarding and transmitting cultural heritage, supporting cultural diversity and embracing digital innovation as a means of enhancing access to culture and preserving Europe’s cultural resources for future generations.

Relevance for Museums and Cultural Heritage Institutions

For museums and heritage organisations across Europe, the declaration provides an important political framework that reinforces the value of their work. Museums play a vital role in preserving and interpreting cultural heritage, facilitating lifelong learning, supporting intercultural dialogue and creating spaces for reflection and participation.

The recognition of culture as a cross-cutting priority within European policymaking strengthens the position of museums as key contributors to social cohesion, democratic engagement and sustainable development. It also offers new opportunities to ensure that museums remain active partners in shaping Europe’s future.

Looking Ahead

The Joint Declaration builds upon the European Commission’s Culture Compass for Europe, which seeks to establish a long-term strategic framework for culture within the European Union. Together, these initiatives represent an important step towards ensuring that culture is fully recognised as a cornerstone of European integration and development.

ICOM Europe welcomes this significant political commitment and will continue to engage with European institutions, museum professionals and cultural stakeholders to ensure that museums and cultural heritage organisations contribute actively to the implementation of the declaration’s objectives.

By placing culture at the heart of Europe’s future, the European Union has sent a clear message: culture is not only a reflection of Europe’s identity and diversity, but also an essential resource for building a more inclusive, resilient and sustainable Europe.

Further Reading

• Joint Declaration “Europe for Culture – Culture for Europe”.
• Press release
• European Commission’s Culture Compass for Europe initiative.