Apply for the VAHA Transnational Networking Meeting
3 Jun 2025
Across Europe, civic space is shrinking—and cultural actors are rising to the challenge. That’s why we’re proud to support VAHA, a transnational programme reclaiming public space through art and solidarity.
This September, VAHA will bring together up to 16 cultural organisations from Council of Europe member states and Kosovo for a Transnational Networking Meeting in Prishtina (10–14 September 2025). Organised by Sekhmet Institute, the meeting offers space to build connections, exchange strategies, and co-develop public cultural programming across borders—especially with the eight existing VAHA hubs in Turkey, Cyprus, Greece, the Netherlands, and North Macedonia.
VAHA (meaning “oasis” in Turkish) was launched to support cultural and artistic initiatives that defend dialogue and democracy, particularly in places where freedom is under pressure. From authoritarianism to polarisation, the threats may be growing—but so is the power of culture to resist.
Who can apply?
Arts and cultural organisations based in CoE member states or Kosovo, with experience in public programming and a desire to collaborate internationally.
Why apply?
Connect with like-minded initiatives
Access funding for collaborative projects (€8,000 per exchange)
Apply for learning and mobility grants (€2,000 per organisation)
Join a Europe-wide network of cultural resilience
The deadline for applications is 27 June 2025, 18:00 CET.
VAHA is an initiative of Anadolu Kültür and zusa, funded by Stiftung Mercator and European Cultural Foundation.
