European Commissioner speaks of important role for the arts

IFACCA/Artshub, 05 March 2005, Belgium

In his speech at a recent European Commission conference on ‘dialogue between peoples and cultures’ held in Brussels and attended by some of Europe’s most prominent artists, Jan Figel - commissioner for education, training, culture and multilingualism - warned that Europe was at an important crossroads. With the recent expansion of the European Union and the inevitable change that accompanies such transition, he warned that “Europe may have won the minds of its citizens but still needs to win their hearts." He said the Arts had an important role to play in linking people together through the sharing of culture, emphasising the importance of moving from a multi–cultural society to create an inter–cultural society. “More attention to culture and arts in the European integration project is a necessity, not a luxury," he said. "Culture offers a novel way of looking at reality. It involves all our senses. It provokes; it stirs controversy, it arouses passion. Art and culture are the best antidotes to a purely functional view of the European Union and the world at large. They put men and women at the centre.” Mr Figel singled out the role of arts festivals as “an ideal setting for turning intercultural dialogue into practice.” And he said, “They offer space for a true encounter between peoples from different cultures; they overcome barriers between people; and they have a profound impact on the cities organising these arts festivals and on its inhabitants.” For further information, CLICK HERE

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