European cultural policy and funding developments

Cultural ministries in Bulgaria, Croatia, and the Czech Republic are implementing various strategic and financial initiatives to support the arts and heritage sectors.

In Bulgaria, the Ministry of Culture is working with local authorities and industry representatives to improve sector sustainability. Discussions in Ruse focused on securing predictable financing for major local festivals, such as the Marten Music Days and the Ruse Jazz Festival. Concurrently, the Ministry is engaging with non-governmental organizations to develop the ‘Charter for Cultural Policy - 2026’, a strategic framework covering education, regional development, and creative industry support.

In Croatia, the Ministry of Culture and Media has established funding deadlines for 2027 projects related to the preservation of archaeological heritage, the protection of cultural goods, and the digitalization of heritage. In the Czech Republic, the Ministry of Culture has set a November deadline for grants aimed at supporting museums and movable cultural heritage through exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs designed to increase accessibility for diverse populations.