Rethinking Africa-Europe cultural relations: AU–EU cultural cooperation fit for the future
A new report entitled ‘Rethinking Africa-Europe cultural relations: Toward an AU–EU cultural cooperation fit for the future‘ was released earlier this month, representing the 3rd research report in a series from Culture Solutions. This report is the result of a year-long joint research project analysing the policy frameworks and funding mechanisms that govern cultural cooperation between Africa and Europe, with a specific focus on Sub-Saharan Africa.
Key areas of focus include:
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Policy Evolution: An assessment of how cultural cooperation has shifted under the EU’s Global Gateway strategy and the emergence of the Africa-Europe Partnerships for Culture
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Funding Landscapes: A detailed review of EU funding programmes for the CCS from 2019 to the present, highlighting the “Team Europe” approach
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Future Trends: Using foresight methodology, the research explores how digital transformations and changing geopolitical realities are reshaping the CCS
The report also proposes several forward-looking recommendations for future cooperation, including:
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Innovative Financing: Move beyond traditional aid models toward new approaches to financing cultural cooperation that align with local creative needs and EU priorities
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Skill-Centric Development: Prioritising skills foresight to equip young creatives with the specific tools needed to navigate a transforming global market.
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Balanced Partnerships: Fostering a more equitable “Team Europe” approach that emphasises co-creation and mutual benefit rather than top-down funding