How can we build equal partnerships between cultural institutions from Europe and Africa today? What systemic, political, or mental barriers still hinder closer collaboration between institutions operating in different economic and historical contexts?
The discussion was inspired by the 20th anniversary of the 2005 UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, focusing on models of partnership and institutional responsibility. Together with representatives of ministries, national theatres, foundations, and cultural institutes from both continents, we explored how perceptions of North–South cooperation are evolving in the context of global change.
The conversation “Between Continents: Institutional Challenges of Culture in Europe and Africa” was moderated by Dr. Karolina Bieniek, with the participation of Thomas Engel (former director of ITI Deutschland), Anna Godlewska (Deputy Director, Department of Cultural Diplomacy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs), Edgaras Klivis (Artistic Director, National Drama Theatre of Kaunas), and Alicja Kosińska (President of Go’n’Act).