On 19 October 2011, several EUNIC in Brussels members participated in the Culture and Development Network meeting, organised by the British Council and UNESCO.

The meeting which was opened by Martin Hope, Director of the British Council EU office provided a networking and knowledge sharing opportunity for the Culture and Development Network. There were representatives of a wide range of European cultural organisations, embassies and development agencies present including several EUNIC in Brussels members as well as the current EUNIC in Brussels president and Director of the Austrian Cultural Forum Brussels, Mario Vielgrader.

During the meeting, network members discussed the development of an interactive Culture and Development online resource which should enable the network to keep in contact by sharing intelligence, best practices, forging partnerships on projects, advocacy, etc.

Funding opportunities for the network’s projects were equally discussed. Since the financial framework is tight and the space for culture and development in European institutions has narrowed, many of the network members emphasised the need for a better coordination of different actors in the field of culture and development.

There are many challenges, but also opportunities in the current culture and development work. At the end of a lively and fruitful discussion, a clear message emerged from the round table: a need for stronger collaboration and professionalism.

Added: 9 November 2011