In many smaller towns across Europe, cultural organisations are holding space for dialogue, participation and shared life, often under growing pressure from polarisation and shrinking civic space. These organisations are where people continue to meet, exchange and stay connected, even when differences deepen.
From 21 to 24 April 2026, participants from across Europe will gather in Świdnica for the first European network meeting of LOKAL. Over four days, cultural practitioners will exchange practices, build connections and explore how their work can respond to division, strengthen local networks and sustain participation in communities where shared spaces are becoming more fragile.
LOKAL supports cultural organisations by helping them form new partnerships, from local businesses to community groups, and develop collaborative artistic projects rooted in everyday life. This first network meeting marks the beginning of a wider European exchange, where experiences are shared across contexts to strengthen connection and cohesion.
LOKAL is a joint initiative of the German Federal Cultural Foundation, the German Federal Agency for Civic Education (bpb) and the European Cultural Foundation (ECF).
