On 12 November, the European Commission reaffirmed that culture matters, and it matters for all. This came through the adoption of the Culture Compass for Europe. 

The Compass sets out an ambitious vision of “putting culture at the heart of EU policymaking”, “making Europe the best place to be an artist”, and “charting a new vision for vibrant, world-leading cultural and creative sectors”. It recognises culture and cultural heritage as cornerstones of democracy, social life, and cohesion, as well as Europe’s security, resilience, competitiveness, and sustainable development.  

It will guide EU policies in four key directions: 

1. Upholding and strengthening European values and cultural rights.

2. Empowering artists and cultural professionals, and supporting people.

3. Drawing on culture and cultural heritage to become more competitive, resilient and cohesive.  

4. Championing international cultural relations and partnerships. 

Importantly, the Compass acknowledges the barriers that people with disabilities face in accessing culture and in pursuing careers as cultural professionals. Among its 20 concrete actions to be implemented by 2028, the Commission plans to publish a report in early 2028 to help Member States increase participation and support for people with disabilities in cultural life. 

Another major initiative is a proposed Joint Declaration by the Council and the European Parliament, which will reaffirm commitments to: 

• Enhance inclusive access to, participation in, and enjoyment of culture and cultural heritage for all, with particular attention to people with disabilities 

• Promote gender equality in culture and cultural heritage, and protect the rights of artists and cultural professionals with disabilities 

• Ensure artificial intelligence systems are human-centric and rights-based, respecting cultural rights, accessibility, inclusivity, and diversity, while fostering digital inclusion 

At EASPD, we are committed to supporting service providers in enabling access to culture for persons with disabilities and safeguarding their freedom of artistic expression. We will work to ensure that the Culture Compass delivers for everyone, including people with disabilities. 

Find more information on the Culture Compass: Culture Compass for Europe - Culture and Creativity.