Last week, ACE participated in the European Commission’s inaugural consultation on the Culture Compass – the new EU Strategic Framework for Culture.

The European Commission is taking significant steps toward shaping the future of Europe’s cultural landscape. Under the leadership of Glenn Micallef, Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture, and Sport, the Commission is launching the Culture Compass as a guiding framework to enhance cultural policy making across Europe.

Over 50 cross-sectoral and sector-specific cultural organisations gathered on 20 March for an insightful discussion on the initiative, a key part of the Commissioner’s mandate. 

ACE President Ruth Schagemann shared her perspective: “The core principles guiding cultural cooperation in the EU must be rooted in Quality and Identity. Quality, as defined by the Davos Baukultur Quality System, transcends aesthetics—it’s about sustainability, inclusion, and fostering a sense of belonging. Architecture is not merely construction; it is a cultural expression of our identity and a reflection of Europe’s diverse heritage.”