Initiated by Chemnitz and Nova Gorica, the two European Capitals of Culture 2025, the paper outlines 40 concrete proposals aimed at shaping the new legal framework for the programme.

The White Paper is based on an extensive study that brings together insights from managing directors and artistic coordinators of 64 past and future European Capitals of Culture. The research identifies key areas for modernization in four central aspects:   Strengthening European Cooperation: The European dimension should be firmly embedded as a core selection criterion. A unified branding is also proposed, supported by a mandatory yet customizable European logo.Simplifying Selection and Monitoring Processes: The bureaucratic burden on applicant cities should be reduced. Instead of elaborate on-site visits, a fact-based verification process is recommended, enabling a fair and transparent evaluation.

Securing Long-Term Implementation: The concepts outlined in the bidbooks should become binding commitments. Additionally, a revision of the Melina Mercouri Prize is suggested to provide financial support to Capital of Culture cities at an early stage.

At the same time, national governments should be held more accountable to support the winning cities in implementing the title year and ensuring its long-term legacy.Improving Knowledge Transfer: An EU-backed platform should be established to facilitate the exchange of best practices. It is also proposed that bidbooks and evaluation reports be made publicly accessible.

These recommendations were intensively discussed at the conference in Chemnitz on April 4th. They will now be submitted to the European Commission, the Council of the EU, and the European Parliament to initiate the next steps of the reform process. On Tuesday, May 13th, at 7.30 pm, the White Paper will also be presented at the European Parliament in Brussels. Head of Research, Dr. Valentina Montalto, Ph.D., Professor of Cultural Economics and Policies, will present the White Paper, accompanied by the Lord Mayor of Chemnitz, Sven Schulze and the Management of Chemnitz 2025, Andrea Pier und Stefan Schmidtke.

The event is organized in collaboration with Members of the European Parliament from Slovenia and Saxony. The programmes of the European Capitals of Culture 2025, Chemnitz and Nova Gorica, will also be presented. Panel discussions will offer the opportunity to discuss the future development of the European Capitals of Culture programme.  

Comments on the White Paper:

Dr. Valentina Montalto, Head of Research: “For a policy-oriented researcher like me, it has been an absolute honour and pleasure to contribute to the evolution of such an ambitious initiative. I am especially grateful to the cities of Chemnitz and Nova Gorica for providing this invaluable learning opportunity, as well as to the ECoC managers for sharing their passion, struggles, and insights. This research is not just about imagining change but about making it happen. That’s why the next steps are crucial, and we count on everyone’s support to keep this remarkable European initiative relevant and impactful.”

Georg Häusler, Director for Culture at the European Commission: “For 40 years, the European Capitals of Culture have been about building bridges and nurturing our shared European values, while showcasing the richness and diversity of our identities. I would like to thank and congratulate Chemnitz and Nova Gorica for perpetuating this, and for putting together such an insightful report on the 40 years of the European Capitals of Culture. I am confident this White Paper will pave the way for designing and shaping the future of the action after 2033.”

Sven Schulze, Lord Mayor of Chemnitz: "The spectacular opening of the European Capital of Culture Chemnitz 2025 has demonstrated the power and enthusiasm this programme can generate for cities and their development. However, the long-term success of a European Capital of Culture lies in its legacy, in the impact it has far beyond the title year. With the White Paper, we are setting a new impetus to actively shape the future of the European Capitals of Culture and to sustainably strengthen their impact.”  

Samo Turel, Mayor of Nova Gorica: “In the year of the European Capital of Culture title, Nova Gorica, in cooperation with Gorizia and Chemnitz, carries a responsible message of democracy, coexistence, and friendship. At a time when Europe questions its security and future, it is crucial that the European Capitals of Culture are cities with historical memory. Our experience shows that the world can only thrive as a multilateral space based on the rule of law, human rights, and democracy. Many of our cultural programmes reflect this commitment. I am especially pleased that our cities have also collaborated on a major research project about 40 years of the ECoC initiative, offering valuable insights for the future.

Here the White Paper.

In the next days the report of Ecocnews.