New structured dialogue platforms, first meeting in Brussels
(2008 06 19 15:26)
Two new platforms on ‘access to culture’ and on ‘the cultural industries’ met for the first time on 5-6 June 2008. The invited organisations were selected by the European Commission through a call for expressions of interest. The main aim of the meetings was to devise the work programme and designate the governing bodies.
During the preparatory meeting organised by Culture Action Europe in the evening of 4th June the members discussed priorities for the platforms as well as their role and prospects.
The meeting of the platform on ‘access to culture’ took place on 5th June with participation of Brussels-based networks and newcomers. The organisations had different interests but they expressed their will to cooperate. It was decided that Mercedes Giovinazzo (Interarts – a Culture Action Europe member organisation) would become the interim chair. Three thematic working groups were formed: ‘creation/production’ (led by IETM), ‘participation/audience’ (led collaboratively by EFA) and ‘learning/education’ (led by the Association of European Open Air Museums). A steering committee and a secretariat were also created.
During the meeting of the Platform on ’cultural and creative industries’ on 6th June the Commission had to intervene with an appeal to identify commonalities instead of defending particular interests. A steering committee and a secretariat were also chosen and five working groups were formed: ‘regulatory environment’ (led by EFCA, European fFlm Companies’ Alliance), ‘support for the development of SMEs’ (led by IMPALA, independent Music Companies’ Association), ‘exchange/export’ (led by EFAP, European Forum for Architectural Policies), ‘use of the European dimension of the circulation of artists and cultural products’ (led by EMO, European Music Office) and ‘the interface of artistic creation and the cultural industries’ (led by Culture Action Europe, with secretarial support from the EMC, European Music Council).
More information on Culture Action Europe can be found here