by Gabriela Mocan & Piotr Michalowski
Introduction
The crucial aspects on how the Permanent Citizens’ Assemblies may reinforce Democracy are related to grasping the local needs, expectations and challenges, and to providing a continued, sustainable dialogue with stakeholders, the roundtable approach proving to be a useful tool for many similar contexts. When the local policies are lacking those aspects, the cultural organizations become highly detached from the localities. Jonathan McClory, author of the May 2021 report called “Socially Distanced Diplomacy: The future of soft power and public diplomacy in a fragile world” , wrote: “with a focus on how public diplomacy practitioners can help build the alliances needed to get through the next global crisis, we need to be more inclusive of diverse voices (…) All of this starts with listening”. Our text refers to some examples of potential forms to keep the reciprocal exchanges ongoing between the policy makers and local leaders. Those are offered by the described European Network of Cultural Centres (ENCC) Bridge Makers programme, or the Horizontal Network meetings/Speak outs developed by the IN SITU project. The microgranting scheme secured by the ENCC network since 2021 is aimed at nurturing local creative ecosystems and supporting culture-led development. While the supported initiatives are related mostly to culture, sustainability and inclusion, the additional level of ‘going beyond’ localities, uplifting those practices to international and European level (as an act), is related fully to cultural diplomacy, especially the transregional and subnational dimensions of micro-diplomacy. Finally, the Arts and Cultural Management Conference format has been offering, for the past 7+ years, a sustainable platform for human-centred dialogue on burning issues and challenges, predominantly focusing on new actors in the field and young professionals. These examples are based on the reflective and constantly evaluated models that put forward democratization and participation.
Failures and lessons learned
As seen in our research and field work, there are several obstacles enclosed in the localities; for instance local policy makers, in many cases, are not interested in developing particular cultural policies, as culture tends to be neglected on a strategic level. The most deflecting obstacles are related to multi-level hierarchies involved in making rather simple decisions, which then affects a large population living in a designated area, who may solely take responsibility for their locality. The administration should undergo specific training in building local partnerships and alliances (same for cultural stakeholders), since we often witness difficulties in cooperation between the two groups. The ambitious goals should include, at first, local dialogue and mutual understanding and the best way forward is to grant some authority and power to local structures, allowing alliances of local neighbourhoods to be self-governing on multiple levels.
The participatory governance models (aka Permanent Citizens’ Assemblies), introduced in the local context, may bring several positive changes and may prevent inactive behaviours among local inhabitants. Important steps to take would be related to incentivizing local-level cultural stakeholders (and representatives of local authorities) on the importance of culture in local development. The idea of organising ‘roundtables for culture’ (e.g. every year) would, therefore, allow to monitor the implementation of some goals set on the local level (or primarily envisioning the goals). Chances are related to the motivation of several cultural stakeholders, who believe in sustainable development through culture and advocate for more cohesive policies at all levels, and especially for the local attention to this topic.
ENCC’s recently launched (in January 2023) programme Closing the Gap, operating since 2021 (presently named Bridge Makers), aims to bring local authorities and cultural operators, as well as other representatives of the civil society around the same table. The reason behind initiating the programme was that several ENCC members experience a significant gap in the work done by cultural centres and their local authorities (politicians and/or civil servants). There is often a need for improved communication, collaboration and connection, increased trust and more structured dialogue. On the other hand, some members experience supportive and productive working relationships with local authorities, and are able to share their practices and recommendations with those seeking to improve them. The ENCC Bridge Makers programme aims at creating fruitful and potentially transforming cooperation between local administrations and cultural centres, and it intends to build such bridges. Inclusive policies towards participation are also key. The systemic approach to social engagement is delivered by one more example, which tackles another conclusive aspect of participation that involves citizens into data aggregation.
Democratization and cultural (micro) diplomacy
The crucial context for this example is given by the Sustainable Development Goals introduced by the United Nations. Cascading grant schemes are closely related to SDG’s Goal no11 named “Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable“. Especially by supporting locally-based projects dedicated to sustainability through financial injections that enable concrete production, leads to initiatives developing inspiring models locally, based on circular economy, environmental sustainability, sustainable mobility, or ethical digitalization, which might be used for creative multiplications, on local or international level.
Such capabilities and mission includes the ENCC programme called SOS (Seeds of Sustainability) UPscale cascading grant scheme, initiated in 2021 (presently the ENCC UPgrants programme). The initiatives are presented in the form of a Treasure Resource Box, and all (not only the few granted ones) are creating a positive impact on several levels, enhancing and reinforcing cultural diplomacy. These also contribute to the general understanding on how seed grants may support micro-scale pilots in the local context, reinforcing the development of creative ecosystems. The necessity of implementing such projects in the communities also serves as an inspiration for different organizations and countries, where such or similar projects might be implemented. These are ‘the promising seeds’, which should later be well ‘cultivated’. The pioneering edition of the ENCC Upscale, back in 2021, led to a significant political change, since the cascading funding has been officially endorsed and legitimized in the ongoing 2021-2027 edition of the Creative Europe programme..
The cascading grant schemes may be considered as elements of the cultural micro-diplomacy. In this sense, cultural activities are not only an additional element of creating good ground for public diplomacy, but self-standing vehicles for a permanent citizens’ involvement, enabling sustainable local solutions of up-cycling, art production, capacity building, or social integration. The creative content of the initiative supports the diplomatic aims and democratization agendas of local, regional and national community actors.
Assemblies that make a difference
Such approaches are unified within the category of Creative Ecosystem, and it would be useful to create guidelines for networking and cooperation between any entities both in urban and non-urban areas. A successful dialogue between the policy makers and the civil society may provide the foundation for imagining the future, which should be co-shaped in participation. One more project brings here another added value of local horizontal participatory processes. It is the project implemented between 2022-26, called “IN SITU: Place-based innovation of cultural and creative industries in non-urban areas” (Horizon Europe-funded), led by the Centre of Social Sciences of the University of Coimbra (Portugal), which sheds light on concrete measures towards local support for CCIs development and creative ecosystems. The project aims to better understand the forms, processes, and governance needs of CCIs located in non-urban areas of Europe (especially in ultra-peripheral areas, like far-remote islands) and to advance the ability of non-urban CCIs to act as drivers of innovation, competitiveness, and sustainability for the areas in which they are located.
A core defining aspect of IN SITU is the interlinking of research and practice through place-based IN SITU Labs – hubs for networking, training and capacity building, and monitoring case studies in 6 non-urban regions across Europe, located in Portugal, Ireland, Iceland, Finland, Latvia, and Croatia. In each IN SITU Lab location, local CCI agents and organisations will propose ideas on how local CCIs can creatively address the local issues. Informed by these ideas and IN SITU research findings, a participatory workshop involving a selected number of CCIs from the locale will be held to discuss these ideas and proposals in more depth, and assess the most valuable inputs and stakeholders to address the needs of the community. The methodology was developed named as the horizontal network meetings and speak-outs. Both include local CCOs and CCIs, inhabitants, and cross-sector actors.
Beyond the nation-state – the transnational assemblies
In November 2024, the Arts and Cultural Management Conference (ACMC) in Vienna convened under the theme Transgression & Collaboration. This was the 7th edition of the ACMC and one that very much aligned with the core values of European Alternatives and the focus of this present issue.
Developed and run by international teams of volunteers, the ACMC brings together artists, cultural practitioners, scholars and researchers, as they discuss pressing issues facing the creative sector nowadays. Through the main on-site conference taking place in Vienna and the various online activities mapped out throughout the year, it aims at fostering a stimulating and cross-disciplinary dialogue on current matters, as well as building a strong international community around shared passions and goals for cultural and artistic evolution. Its commitment to diversity and innovation, reflected both in the makeup of its team but also in the formats of its events and activities, recommend it as a project of great relevance that resonates with the shared aspirations of our global cultural community.
Gabriela Mocan joined the ACMC as President and Strategy Consultant for its 2024 edition and was particularly committed to aligning the platform’s work with broader conversations about the role transnational initiatives can play in shaping European and global democracy. Conversations started online, with several pre-conference events that welcomed, for the most part, speakers from other continents. This was meant to be a new model for the ACMC, one that would facilitate a greater outreach while helping build a stronger community around it. Also, through the ACMC Hub launched on LinkedIn months before the grand Vienna get together, a stronger community of like-minded people was starting to emerge, configuring fresh perspectives One of the key objectives of ACMC 2024 was to attract strategic partnerships that would not only deepen the collective reflection on the edition’s theme but also strengthen the project’s long-term sustainability. With this in mind, the participation of two pivotal organisations was secured ENCC and EUNIC (European Union National Institutes for Culture). By bringing together perspectives from both the independent and governmental cultural sectors, these partnerships allowed ACMC to explore the conference theme from multiple vantage points, enhancing its relevance and resonance within the broader discourse on transnational cooperation and democratic innovation.
Transgression and Collaboration: catalysts for democratic engagement
The ACMC 2024 emphasised the dynamic interplay between transgression and collaboration in the arts and culture. Transgression, in this context, referred to the act of challenging established norms and conventions, while collaboration involved working together to create something greater than the sum of its parts. These concepts are not merely theoretical; they are practical tools for fostering democratic engagement.
In the realm of arts and culture, transgressive practices often involve questioning and redefining societal norms, thereby creating space for new forms of expression and dialogue. Collaboration, on the other hand, brings together diverse perspectives and expertise, facilitating collective action and shared understanding. Together, these elements can transform passive spectators into active participants in democratic processes.
A particularly significant contribution to the ACMC 2024 programme came from cultural expert Piotr Michalowski, former Vice-President and current Board Member of the European Network of Cultural Centres. The panel he curated and chaired, “Arts and Cultural Management in Cultural Heritage: Transgressive Projects and Strategies,” served as a focal point of the conference, bringing together an international group of creatives and practitioners. The session delved into how transgressive skills – such as risk-taking, critical disruption, and experimental collaboration – can be strategically employed in the management of cultural heritage. Michalowski’s panel also explored participatory models that move beyond traditional custodianship of heritage, advocating instead for inclusive, community-embedded approaches that democratise both narrative and access. His work underscored the essential role of culture as a living, dynamic process and offered powerful insights into how cultural heritage, when approached with transgressive and collaborative mindsets, can become a site of active democratic engagement.
Transnational Assemblies: a new model for democracy
Transnational assemblies represent a rather novel approach to democratic participation. Unlike traditional nation-state-based systems, these assemblies transcend national borders, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds to engage in dialogue and decision-making. This model reflects a shift towards a more inclusive and participatory form of democracy, where the emphasis is on collective deliberation and shared responsibility. The ACMC 2024 highlighted the potential of such assemblies to empower young professionals, providing them with platforms to voice their concerns and contribute to decision-making processes. By fostering environments that encourage open dialogue and mutual respect, these assemblies can cultivate a sense of shared purpose and collective agency.
In Europe, transnational assemblies can complement existing democratic structures by fostering greater citizen engagement and participation. They can serve as spaces for deliberation and consensus-building, enhancing the legitimacy and responsiveness of democratic institutions. Globally, they can contribute to the development of a more interconnected and cooperative international community. By bringing together individuals from different cultures and backgrounds, these assemblies can promote mutual understanding and collaboration, paving the way for more effective and equitable global governance.
In the context of ACMC 2024, bringing EUNIC Austria onboard as a key partner was both timely and significant. Part of EUNIC Global, a network of 140 clusters led, until June 2025, by Romanian Cultural President Liviu Jicman, EUNIC Austria fosters dialogue and mutual understanding through its network of national cultural institutes, thereby reinforcing democratic values at a local and international level. In the context of the conference theme, EUNIC’s work exemplifies how cultural diplomacy and shared cultural initiatives can transcend national borders, spark constructive conversations, and create spaces for democratic expression. The contributions of Andreea Dincă, Director of the Romanian Cultural Institute Vienna and EUNIC Austria President, and Márton Méhes, Director of Collegium Hungaricum Vienna, further emphasized the collaborative spirit at the heart of EUNIC’s mission. Their discussion during the conference highlighted the profound impact of joint projects between their respective institutes, the broader EUNIC network and among all related partnerships.
Lessons from the ACMC 2024: building democratic capacities
The ACMC 2024 provided valuable insights into the functioning of transnational assemblies. One key lesson was the importance of creating spaces that encourage active participation and critical thinking. Workshops and panel discussions focused on developing transgressive skills – abilities that enable individuals to challenge existing norms and think creatively about solutions to societal issues. Another lesson was the need for inclusivity and diversity in these assemblies. By ensuring that a wide range of voices are heard, transnational assemblies can more accurately reflect the complexities of global societies and develop solutions that are equitable and just.
Conclusion
The aforementioned initiatives underscore the importance of transgressive practices and transnational assemblies in fostering active democracy. By challenging established norms and fostering collaboration, these assemblies can empower individuals and communities to engage more deeply in democratic processes. As we move beyond the nation-state, transnational assemblies offer a promising avenue for revitalising democracy in Europe and across the globe.
The work and research activities conducted by the ENCC and ACMC, are focusing deeply on participatory approaches, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and representation for meaningful connections. Given that the flat governance structures enable active participation and a sense of ownership among the community members, the best way forward is to empower local structures, such as community alliances, to adopt and maintain self-governing practices on multiple levels and matters. The participatory governance models, introduced locally, may bring about positive change and may prevent passiveness. A constant consultation process, constant mapping of core needs and potentials, together with a community dialogue, may greatly contribute to social engagement.
Contemporary societies are diverse and multidimensional, and their full complexity should be revealed and described by in-depth participatory practices. The qualities of the Permanent Citizens’ Assemblies should be well communicated to civil society, and such formats have to be professionally shaped and led. The well-incorporated elements of the explained approaches are able to bring several long-term effects and sustainable changes. It is then crucial, once being satisfied by the achieved positive change, to consequently work on actually sustaining this change – nothing can be believed as everlasting. But as a reward, according to principles of participatory processes, by creating a horizontal structure of dialogue where power hierarchies have no meaning or function, the informal relationship naturally becomes a win-win process for the community and its development.
Gabriela Mocan, creative producer, curator, academic and author with 10+ years’ experience in cultural diplomacy. With a PhD in Philology/ Cultural Studies and collaborations in Europe, UK and USA, she has held strategic, leadership and educational roles. Head of Literature, Architecture and Visual Arts at the Romanian Cultural Institute in London (2013-2019 & 2024 – present), ACMC President and Strategy Consultant (Dec. 2023 – Jan. 2025), Board member of the ACMC and the London Arts-Based Research Centre, and Lecturer at the Babeș-Bolyai University.
Piotr Michałowski, researcher, cultural expert, a Board member of the European Network of Cultural Centers ENCC in Brussels (since 2015), and a Creative Programme Lead at the MuseoSpace Foundation, Leiden, the Netherlands. He is an independent expert on Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe programme, expert evaluator of DG EACEA (European Commission), Goethe Institut Brussels, EIT KIC Culture & Creativity and IFCD Fund of UNESCO. He has obtained MA in culture studies, MSci in project management, MSci in cultural diplomacy, and a European Diploma in cultural management.