“Culture for Democracy, Democracy for Culture”- Lars Ebert (Culture Action Europe)

Wari tunic, ca. 750–850. Via: Public Domain Review. Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art

In an era of profound social, economic, and environmental challenges, cultural leadership through cultural democracy offers a critical pathway toward building resilient, inclusive societies. The transformative role of socially engaged arts fosters democratic agency, bridging ideological divides, and amplifying marginalized voices. The democratization of culture requires rethinking the frameworks that define cultural value, encouraging active participation, and expanding cultural leadership to be more representative of diverse communities. Socially engaged practitioners have demonstrated how cultural practices can address social inequality, foster inclusion, and enhance community resilience—yet they remain vulnerable to external pressures and institutional challenges.

Looking ahead, policymakers and cultural stakeholders must take decisive steps to support a sustainable cultural sector. Priorities include establishing a dedicated culture goal within the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, recognizing culture as a Global Public Good, and upholding cultural rights as an extension of human rights. By aligning with initiatives such as the Porto Santo Charter, governments can foster policies that support diversity, equity, and local cultural empowerment. For cultural democracy to take root, ongoing capacity-building, knowledge sharing, and the re-design of outdated funding frameworks are essential. Together, these efforts will create a foundation for future cultural leaders to thrive, ensuring a more democratic, inclusive, and resilient cultural landscape that contributes meaningfully to the well-being of all communities.

Suggested readings

• Culture Action Europe, State of Culture Report, Brussels 2024. Pdf downloadable here
• Porto Santo Charter, Portuguese Presidency of the European Union, Porto Santo 2021. Pdf downloadable here

Lars is Secretary General of Culture Action Europe, the political voice of the Cultural Sector in Europe and advocates for strong cultural policies in Europe. Previously he was co-director of H401 in Amsterdam and deputy director of The European League of Institutes of the Arts. Lars has a specific interest in participatory practices and art-based research, holds a postgraduate degree in theology, is a frequent speaker and facilitator, publishes regularly and serves on the board of various organisations in the areas of culture, education, and research.

You can register for this seminar here.
This session is part of the Transmission in Motion seminar (2025-2026): “Navigating Entanglements.”

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