Horizon Europe Maps Future of Culture Creativity and Societal Well-being

Horizon Europe is charting an ambitious course for the future of societal well-being and innovation with its comprehensive Work Programme for 2026-2027. This forward-looking document, detailed in Part 5 of its Culture, Creativity and Inclusive Society agenda, outlines critical research calls and strategic priorities aimed at fostering a more resilient, equitable, and culturally vibrant Europe.

The programme is divided into distinct calls for 2026 and 2027, each focusing on pivotal areas of societal development. Across these two years, a significant emphasis is placed on bolstering democratic processes, enhancing cultural heritage, and empowering the creative industries.

Research on Democracy and Governance

A core pillar of the initiative is dedicated to innovative research on democracy and governance. This includes crucial investigations into tackling gender-based violence against politically active women and LGBTIQ+ individuals, understanding local democracy in lower-income countries, and examining how governments adapt and prepare their civil services for future challenges. Furthermore, the programme seeks sustainable paths to media viability and explores the integrity of elections in the digital age.

Fostering Digital and Civic Resilience

Recognizing the evolving digital landscape, several calls aim to enhance civic and democratic resilience. Topics range from citizenship education as part of lifelong learning to developing digital and media literacy to combat misinformation and polarization. The programme also addresses the profound impact of artificial intelligence, cyberviolence, and deepfakes on equality and inclusive societies.

Cultural Heritage and Creative Industries

The programme also champions Europe's cultural heritage and its vibrant cultural and creative industries (CCIs). Research will explore the potential of "artistic intelligence" to drive innovation and soft skill development, support creative startups, and investigate AI integration within CCI work practices. Addressing the challenges posed by generative AI to fair and transparent markets for cultural content is also a key priority.

Global Partnerships and Societal Models

Beyond internal development, Horizon Europe is keen on fostering global partnerships in cultural policies and CCI innovation. The programme also delves into safeguarding linguistic diversity within Europe and preventing the illicit trafficking of cultural goods. It aims to strengthen Europe's social model by supporting research that bridges cultural development with societal well-being.

Innovation Ecosystems and Inclusivity

Looking ahead to 2027, the programme continues to build towards a consolidated, culture and creativity-driven European innovation ecosystem. The emphasis on inclusivity is evident throughout, aiming to ensure that research outputs contribute to a more equitable and participatory society for all.

The preliminary views presented in this draft work programme signal a strong commitment to leveraging research and innovation to address contemporary societal challenges, from democratic integrity to cultural sustainability, underscoring the vital role of culture and creativity in shaping Europe's future.

Source Insight: This report was curated based on original coverage from ufukavrupa.org.tr.

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