The structured dialogue provides a formal mechanism for cooperation between the European Commission and cultural stakeholders from the cultural and creative sectors and industries (CCSI). It establishes a transparent and inclusive framework to inform and enhance the Commission’s cultural policy work, in line with its governance standards and principles. This dialogue supports the implementation of the EU Work Plan for Culture 2023–2026, and potentially contributes to shaping a future multi-annual Work Plan from 2027 onwards, to be adopted by the Council. Key objectives of the structured dialogue include: - Fostering regular and inclusive exchange among Member States, EU institutions, civil society, international organisations, and third-country partners, in line with the Work Plan’s commitment to holistic approaches, mutual learning, and policy coherence. - Upholding core principles such as the importance of Europe’s diverse cultural heritage, the role of artists and cultural industries, free artistic and creative expression, and culture’s contribution to inclusive and cohesive societies. - Addressing strategic priorities including support for artists and creative professionals, enhancing cultural participation, and tackling complex challenges such as sustainability and the EU’s external cultural relations—through consultation and collaboration with the CCSI. Based on these principles, and as outlined in the request for services, the structured dialogue aims to: - Inform EU cultural policy processes, by strengthening the advocacy capacity of the CCSI and ensuring diverse representation within policy debates. - Enable regular, structured exchanges between the Commission and civil society stakeholders (e.g. professional organisations, cultural institutions, NGOs, European networks, foundations), responding to evolving policy needs. - Facilitate consultation and contribution to EU-level cultural policy developments, including drawing on external expertise beyond the CCSI when relevant. - Encourage collaboration across the cultural and creative sectors, including through digital platforms, to develop shared approaches to complex policy challenges. - Establish a coherent programme of annual round tables and thematic engagement sessions, offering opportunities for the CCSI to explore key topics and contribute to policymaking. - Create pathways for grassroots input, including from artists and cultural professionals, through thematic surveys, longitudinal panels, and analytical tools. - Deliver clear reporting outputs that capture the outcomes of structured dialogue activities—such as feedback from round tables, thematic session results, and findings from grassroots surveys—to inform future policy decisions.