After Antwerp (1993), Brussels (2000), Bruges (2002), and Mons (2015), Leuven will represent Belgium as European Capital of Culture in 2030. In 2030, a Cypriot city may call itself European Capital of Culture. In Cyprus, two cities are still competing for the title: Larnaca and Limassol. Two cities from candidate member states also submitted an application: Lviv from Ukraine and Niksic from Montenegro.

There will be three European capitals of culture in 2030. One will be designated by Cyprus, the other by Belgium, and the third will be chosen between Nikšić (Montenegro) and Lviv (Ukraine). 

The selection process is under way to award the title of European Capital of Culture for 2030. The countries to nominate the city are Cyprus, Belgium and one of the candidate countries to join the European Union (EFTA/EEA area).