Through 11 case studies worldwide, EUNIC’s report on cultural relations in fragile context argues that cultural aspects can find a good entry point in contemporary notions of peace, which are increasingly connected to development and social justice and thus contribute to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development. This provides an opportunity for the EU to affirm its influence in the world, as well as a concrete framework for new models of international partnerships worldwide
Based on robust evidence the report outlines clear pathways to strengthen the position of cultural aspects in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, both where culture is mentioned explicitly and elsewhere and by developing strategies and policies which make these connections explicit and build strong partnerships.
This session invited relevant stakeholders in the fields of culture, sustainable development, international cooperation, peace and security (including public and private sectors, practitioners and policy makers) to share insights and examples of the role of culture in creating sustainable pathways for peacebuilding and security in fragile contexts with the goal of creating new models for international partnerships worldwide.
Synopsis
The session opened with the presentation of the EUNIC’s report which highlighted the importance of taking a holistic approach to sustainable peace, an approach that connects development, peace and humanitarian work.
The participants discussed the issues raised in the report and debated how cultural heritage at risk can be protected, in addition to how art can address economic, environmental, political, security and societal fragilities. The importance of ensuring that development policies take culture into consideration was underscored, with the role culture plays in reconciliation processes also being discussed. Furthermore, it was stressed that systemic preventive policies to protect cultural heritage are needed.
