From May 6 to 8, 2026, the 16th Culture Next Conference in Larnaka, Cyprus, brought together representatives from 50 European cities under the theme “Culture for CCS – Empowering the Cultural & Creative Sectors.” The event served as a vital platform for aligning local cultural strategies with European goals for resilience and social responsibility.
Ștefan Teișanu, Secretary General of Culture Next, delivered the State of the Network address, a journey through the network’s history, present and ambitions. He highlighted how Culture Next strengthens the legacy of the European Capital of Culture project and increases culture’s impact across Europe.
The realities of conflict and the role of culture
A significant part of the dialogue addressed culture’s protective and resilient role during crises. In the session Voices from the Field, moderated by Kelly Diapouli, Ahmed Tobasi, Eleana Alexandrou, Nurtane Karagil and Yulia Khomchyn provided first-hand insights into the challenges artists face in war zones and areas of displacement. Yulia Khomchyn’s testimony from Lviv, Ukraine, highlighted the seriousness of these issues: “Every night we risk being killed. We seek culture as a safe space that gives us time.” This reality, complemented by Mary Ann DeVlieg’s address on artists’ rights, reframed support for the creative sector not just as an economic investment but as a fundamental and humanitarian necessity.
Technical innovation and policy
While the Mediterranean Cultural Cities Network explored new ways for cities to cooperate across borders, the SDG Labs looked toward the digital horizon. Here, experts explored AI-powered tools to measure the real-world impact of culture on sustainable development goals.
The program featured pitches from local cultural actors in Larnaka, highlighting the energy, creativity, and commitment of the local scene. The main strategic outcome is a Policy Paper on Empowering the CCS, which will guide the 50 member cities in integrating the creative sector into social and economic innovation across Europe.
Looking toward Oulu
As the network gets ready for its next meeting in Oulu this autumn, Europe’s cultural community is becoming more united and focused. This progress is thanks to the Cluj-Napoca team and the dedication of all 50 partner cities.
