All towns can now apply to be the European Capital of Culture 2031, applications to be submitted as a region
Every town across the Maltese islands has the opportunity to apply to become the European Capital of Culture 2031. Yet, theValletta Cultural Agency (VCA)said that applications will be put forward to the European Commission (which has the final say) as a region rather than as individual localities.
The VCA officially launched the process in preparation for the European Capital of Culture 2031 which it will be leading.
This was announced on Monday morning at a seminar on the subject, held at the Manuel Theatre, addressing Local Government Regional Presidents and organisations coming from different regions.
Following Valletta 2018 European Capital of Culture (V18), a city in the Maltese islands will be named European Capital of Culture 2031, according to a schedule established by the European Commission.
Notably, Valletta cannot be chosen again since it already held the title after being unanimously chosen by all localities last time.
The first local phase of the project invites towns to prepare and submit their initial proposal by means of a local Expression of Interest between January and March 2021. The process is expected to finish by 2024.
The process of initial submissions is being led by the VCA which, as set out by LN 427 of 2018, is responsible “to coordinate the bidding process for the next European Capital of Culture title for the Maltese islands.”
VCA Chairman Jason Micallef expressed his satisfaction and pride toward V18’s success, saying that the Agency has all the necessary experience to lead this process and see that it reaches the European Commission successfully. With regards to this initial process, Micallef said that the Agency does not think that the application should be put forward to the European Commission by a single city in Malta and Gozo, but rather the application should be submitted as a whole region. The Maltese islands have five regions in total, including Gozo.
However, he said that the final decision is still in the hands of the European Commission which should be made by 2025, thus meaning that the region would have six years to prepare itself for this national celebration.
From her end, VCA CEO Catherine Tabone said that V18 is proof that the European Capital of Culture is an excellent opportunity for regenerating cities, while boosting tourism and providing high-level opportunities for artists and creatives.
Minister for National Heritage, Arts and Local Governments José Herrera shared Tabone’s sentiment, saying that the European Capital of Culture is another important mark of excellence for the island and is an opportunity for the country to bring to the forefront and exhibit its talent.
“Our culture is a mirror of society and we therefore need to ensure that the creative industry does not collapse due to the present situation. We need to continue generating growth and sustaining this industry, which is so important for this island.”
The European Capital of Culture is a city designated by the EU for a period of one year during which it is given a chance to showcase its cultural life and cultural development.
Several European cities have used the Capital of Culture year to transform completely their cultural case and, in doing so, the way in which they are viewed internationally.
This initiative is designed to highlight the richness and diversity of cultures in Europe, celebrate the cultural features Europeans share, increase European citizens’ sense of belonging to a common cultural area and foster the contribution of culture to the development of cities.
Valletta Design Cluster Caldon Mercieca touched on the collective social value attached to this process, saying that the investment and resources used are a golden opportunity for those who are excluded for some reason or other, to find a space for their contribution to the cultural community.