The European Commission takes up proposals for new rules on the European Capital of Culture set out in the Chemnitz White Paper
The aim is to reach a decision next year, with the measure due to come into force from 2034
The European Commission has presented its proposal for the future of the European Capitals of Culture. The new legal framework for the period 2034 to 2047 is intended to further develop, streamline and strengthen the European Capitals of Culture in the long term. Key elements of the proposal build on recommendations from the Chemnitz White Paper, initiated by Chemnitz and Nova Gorica, entitled ‘40 Recommendations from 40 Years of European Capitals of Culture’.
The Commission explicitly cites the White Paper as a contribution to its deliberations. It proposes that, in future, the European dimension should be enshrined as an overarching criterion in the application process and cultural programme, and linked to a long-term urban strategy. At the same time, the general public – in particular children and young people, people with disabilities, and those at risk of poverty or social exclusion – should be more closely involved in the preparation and implementation of the programme. Furthermore, the Melina Mercouri Prize is to be more closely linked to the fulfilment of the commitments made during the application process, as well as to the implementation of the submitted projects and the work plan. In doing so, the Commission is addressing key concerns raised in the 40 recommendations of the White Paper.
Chemnitz published the White Paper jointly with Nova Gorica in 2025 and presented it to the European Parliament in Brussels. It brings together the experiences of officials from 64 past and future Capitals of Culture, as well as the expertise of more than 200 specialists from across Europe.
The European Commission’s proposal also sets out the years for the title up to 2047. Germany will host the next European Capital of Culture in 2038, jointly with Estonia. The proposal will now be subject to negotiations between the European Parliament and the Council. The aim is to reach a final decision by mid-2027.
Further information:
www.chemnitz.de/ecoc40 Information on the Chemnitz White Paper and PDF download
eur-lex.europa.eu European Commission proposal on the further development of the ‘European Capitals of Culture’