European Expert Network on Culture (EENC)

Project summary

The European Expert Network on Culture (EENC) is a strategic initiative by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Education and Culture (DG EAC), aimed at providing high-quality, independent expertise in the fields of culture and cultural heritage. Awarded to a consortium comprising Panteia, KEA European Affairs, and Vrije Universiteit Brussel’s SMIT, the EENC will operate until 2029. The network supports EU policy development by delivering rigorous analysis, literature reviews, policy briefings, and ad hoc advice on emerging cultural challenges. It contributes to the implementation of the EU Work Plan for Culture 2023–2026, addressing themes such as digital transformation, green transition, working conditions of artists, cultural diversity and access, and culture’s role in health and well-being. The EENC’s work is structured around the three dimensions of the New European Agenda for Culture: social cohesion, economic innovation, and international cultural relations. It plays a key role in shaping policies that harness the transformative power of culture to support Europe’s digital, green, and fair transitions.

Lead partnerPanteia (NL)
ClientEuropean Commission (DG EAC)
Funding programmeEuropean Commission Tender
Period2024 – 2029
RegionWorldwide
ServiceResearch
Statusongoing

KEA's contribution

KEA European Affairs contributes its longstanding expertise in cultural and creative industries policy, innovation, and strategic development. As part of the consortium, KEA co-leads the coordination of expert inputs, thematic research, and policy briefings. It supports the European Commission in synthesising evidence, mapping cultural policies across Member States, and responding to emerging challenges such as digitalisation, sustainability, and cultural inclusion. KEA also plays a key role in stakeholder engagement, communication, and dissemination activities, ensuring that the EENC’s outputs are accessible, relevant, and impactful for EU institutions, Member States, and cultural sector stakeholders.

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