“Culture, in this sense, becomes democratic resilience.”

In a recent interview with the Croatian portal for social and cultural issues Telegram, the European Cultural Foundation’s Director André Wilkens reflects on this quieter terrain where Europe’s future is shaped. He describes today’s culture war not as a dispute about art, but as a struggle over belonging, recognition and who gets to define reality. In this context, culture is not decoration. It is part of the infrastructure that helps societies remain open and capable of acting together.

Resilience is often discussed in terms of defence or economics. The conversation points to another layer: libraries, cultural centres, independent media and local initiatives. These are environments where participation is practiced in everyday ways. People encounter difference, build relationships and develop the trust that public life depends on.

Digital platforms shape perception at speed. Cultural and civic spaces offer something essential in response: time, dialogue and shared experience. Supporting these environments helps societies handle tension without turning inwards.

The interview invites a broader understanding of what enables people to act as a political community. Cultural policy, media ecosystems and everyday places of encounter shape whether democracy feels distant or lived.