Culture and creativity are key drivers of economic growth, job-creation, innovation, and competitiveness.

The cultural and creative sectors and industries are among Europe’s most dynamic economic sectors boosting innovation and competitiveness, creating jobs, and improving the attractiveness of our neighbourhoods and regions.

Harnessing untapped potential

Europe’s cultural and creative production still has untapped potential both within the EU’s single market and globally. To harness their potential and contribution to the EU competitiveness, the cultural and creative sectors and industries must be supported to adapt to technological change and environmental sustainability standards.

This must be done in a way that ensures the promotion of diversity, the protection of creators’ rights, the upholding of adequate ethical standards, and the safeguarding of cultural heritage, including digital heritage, all of which are essential for social and territorial cohesion and resilience.

In addition to measures applicable across sectors, individual sectors encounter specific challenges and needs that the European Commission will continue to address through sectoral initiatives, proven cooperation formats and funding streams that are consistent with overarching policy goals.

Key actions to become more competitive, resilient and cohesive

• present an AI strategy for the cultural and creative sectors
• develop the Common European Data Space for Cultural Heritage, in the context of the forthcoming deployment strategy 2025-2030 for the data space
• consolidate the European Heritage Label and strengthen the European Capitals of Culture scheme after 2033
• adopt a communication and a proposal for a council recommendation on the future of the New European Bauhaus, that harness the transformative power of arts and culture for creativity and innovation
• announce a new European research & innovation partnership for resilient cultural heritage