Explore the publication here.

Since 2019, European Spaces of Culture has supported 33 cultural relations projects across 40 countries—bringing together over 190 cultural and civil society partners alongside 158 EUNIC member branches and 33 EU Delegations.

Together, these collaborations have tackled critical, globally relevant themes, including the climate crisis, post-conflict reconciliation, democratic values, inclusion, decolonisation, and digitalisation.

Our latest project cycle wrapped up at the end of February 2026, following eight projects implemented between June 2024 and October 2025.

Spanning Colombia to Indonesia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina to Malawi, these initiatives demonstrated impactful, innovative, and creative models for cultural collaboration.

Our new publication dives into these latest projects, their ambitions, innovative approaches, and real-world impact.

What We Have Learnt: Partnerships & Sustainability

European Spaces of Culture continues to offer rich insights for cultural relations practices worldwide. In this publication, we shine a spotlight on two crucial areas:

• Working towards fairer and more equitable partnerships: How can cultural relations stay open, equitable, and accessible to diverse stakeholders, and what can we continue to refine?

• Going beyond European Spaces of Culture and long-term sustainability: How do we ensure initiatives and partnerships grow into lasting, sustainable models?

A Model Rooted in Equality and Local Context

European Spaces of Culture has firmly established itself as a flagship action for EU cultural relations. Built on a commitment to equality, inclusion, and reciprocity, the model puts local contexts first.

The European Spaces of Culture project has shown that co-created, locally rooted cultural initiatives can strengthen mutual understanding and generate lasting impact.

Culture Compass for Europe

Projects are designed around local needs, with European partners serving as enablers rather than agenda-setters. This approach has empowered partners to find creative ways to tackle complex and sensitive topics directly on the ground.

The programme exemplifies the 'Team Europe' spirit in action: since 2019, 33 EUNIC members and 120 EU Delegations have participated in project proposals, with 19 EU Member States actively involved in implemented projects.

We extend our sincere thanks to all project partners for their courage, curiosity, and creative energy in shaping these meaningful collaborations.

What’s Next for Spaces?

Grounded in our updated strategic framework, informed by ongoing dialogue with project partners, and adapted to evolving geopolitical realities, the European Spaces of Culture programme continues to evolve.

Building on discussions initiated by the European Commission’s DG EAC, a future iteration of the European Spaces of Culture programme is on the horizon.

Later this year, we will launch a new phase with a dedicated focus on the Southern Mediterranean region, supporting the EU’s Pact for the Mediterranean and fostering deeper engagement with local partners.

More announcements regarding the upcoming cycle will be shared soon - stay tuned!