Cultural Deal for Europe: Keeping Culture in the Next EU Budget

Europe’s next long-term budget will shape how the continent invests in culture, media, civil society and democracy from 2028 to 2034. As part of our ongoing partnership for a Cultural Deal for Europe, the European Cultural Foundation co-signed an open letter calling for a substantial increase in funding for AgoraEU, the proposed EU programme bringing together support for culture, media, values and rights.

The letter, supported by more than 500 organisations, calls on EU leaders to match political ambition with the investment needed to sustain Europe’s cultural, social and democratic infrastructure. Shortly after, the European Parliament proposed a budgetary increase for AgoraEU, raising the allocation from €8.58 billion to €10.72 billion. This marks progress, but remains below the level needed to give culture a stronger place in Europe’s future.

This process is linked to the European Commission’s Culture Compass for Europe, which sets out a strategic framework for culture in EU policymaking. A structured dialogue between the Commission and the cultural sector is planned for October 2026, with the upcoming State of Culture report among the first issues to be discussed.

Our partner Culture Action Europe continues to follow the consultations and negotiations between the Parliament, Council and Commission.