More than 85 member cities, including 14 former European Capitals of Culture, form the cornerstones of ICORN, the International Cities of Refuge Network. Now, Bodø is also a part of this network of safe harbors. Together with ICORN—and cities like Paris, Stockholm, Trencin, Stavanger, Amsterdam, Chemnitz—Bodø2024 will connect art and culture with democracy.

They have called it Arts of Democracy. This is a festival (Bodo, 10-14 September) that focuses on culture, debate, and safe meeting places. They want to fight against intolerance and xenophobia while at the same time promoting democracy, human rights, and freedom of expression. Persecuted artists from all over the world will participate in the festival. Inclusion and encounters between people with different cultural backgrounds are the foundation of a living democracy. The artists and writers coming to Bodø have had to flee their home countries because of their expressions. They bring with them unique perspectives and experiences that will enrich our cultural landscape and promote an understanding of democratic values.

Every Capital of Culture must address a common European issue as part of its program. Democracy and freedom of expression are under pressure. It is not a given to grow up in a free and safe country. Arts of Democracy may not solve the world's problems, but the festival will certainly provide us with new insights, new perspectives, and a deeper understanding of the challenges that more and more people are facing.

"Join us in this important celebration of art and democracy, where together we can help strengthen freedom of expression and create a safer existence for persecuted artists from around the world", they says.

The program here.