In recent years, calls for a more strategic approach to culture in the EU relations with third countries and regions have multiplied, emanating from different stakeholders (European Parliament, Member States, cultural institutes, civil society). Building on this momentum and in line with the Council Work Plan for Culture 2011-2014, in March 2012 the European Commission convened a group of Member States’ experts to reflect on a common EU strategy to cultural relations with third countries.

In recent years, calls for a more strategic approach to culture in the EU relations with third countries and regions have multiplied, emanating from different stakeholders (European Parliament, Member States, cultural institutes, civil society). Building on this momentum and in line with the Council Work Plan for Culture 2011-2014, in March 2012 the European Commission convened a group of Member States’ experts to reflect on a common EU strategy to cultural relations with third countries.