The European Cultural Heritage Year event, is working well. This is the message two European Commission representatives delivered to MEPs on Wednesday 16 May, despite the fact that initially it was not very keen about the idea of relaunching the European thematic year process.
The European Cultural Heritage Year event aims to encourage the sharing and appreciation of Europe's cultural heritage, as well as raise awareness about its history and common values and strengthen the feeling of belonging to the European common area (see EUROPE 11722). Following an agreement between the Parliament and Council, the event was launched in December 2017, during the Milan Culture Forum (see EUROPE 11921).
Addressing Parliament's culture committee, the two Commission representatives indicated that the European Year event was “in line with its objectives” and that “the governance and financing mechanisms were in place”. Speaking on behalf of the Commission' culture services, Catherine Magnant, indicated that “In total, 310 events and initiatives have been established at a European level up to April 2018 and 2,700 have been organised at a national level, with an audience of 1 million Europeans. If we take this pace into account, we would be able to achieve 8,000 events”.
The cooperation project selection process is coming to an end. Out of the 68 eligible projects, 29 have been selected with a total budget of €5 million. The list will be made official on 25 May and action is expected to kick off before September.
Ms Magnant’s colleague, Michel Magnier affirmed that “this year is providing these kinds of benefits” and they should be allowed to continue. He then outlined the European cultural heritage action plan presented on 27 March and which would be included in the new agenda for culture to be presented next week. (Original version in French by Sophie Petitjean)