The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) has held a high-level debate underlining that culture is not a luxury, but a strategic asset for democracy, social cohesion and Europe’s economic resilience. Speakers stressed the need for greater political recognition and sustained investment to turn goals into action.

During its April plenary session, the EESC hosted the Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport, Glenn Micallef, who highlighted the strategic aims behind the Culture Compass and welcomed the EESC’s contribution.

The debate brought together Nela Riehl, Chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on Culture and Education (CULT); Tanja Hristova, vice-chair of the Committee of the Regions’ SEDEC commission and rapporteur for the Culture Compass; and Lars Ebert, Secretary-General of Culture Action Europe.

EESC President Séamus Boland stressed that culture must remain at the heart of EU action even in times of geopolitical uncertainty. He said that culture embodies European values, safeguards freedom and underpins a resilient democratic project.

Commissioner Micallef noted that the cultural sector generates EUR 200 billion in profit and supports eight million jobs, while also holding Europe together in ways that go beyond economic impact. He drew attention to the structural vulnerabilities faced by many cultural and creative workers, who often operate under precarious conditions without stable income or full access to social protection. The Culture Compass aims to address these challenges through measures on artistic freedom, working conditions and access to culture.

Speakers agreed that culture should no longer be treated as a secondary sector but embedded across EU policy frameworks as a strategic driver of Europe’s future, identity and global influence.

A key focus of the discussion was how to translate the Culture Compass into concrete action. The EESC opinion calls for strong, cross-cutting financial support in the next Multiannual Financial Framework (2028–2034), ensuring that cultural objectives are reflected in areas such as competitiveness, skills, research, cohesion and external action.

Through the debate and the adoption of its opinion, the EESC confirmed its role as a key partner in implementing the Culture Compass. Rapporteur Luca Jahier said: 'The Culture Compass sends out a strong political message: culture is not a peripheral part of the European project but sits right at its heart. Culture is a key tool for defending and strengthening democracy, countering populist and authoritarian narratives and increasing preparedness, sustainable development, social cohesion and a sense of belonging.'