A conference inaugurating the Culture Programme under the European Economic Area and Norway Grants was held in Warsaw.
The event brought together representatives of cultural institutions, public administration, and foreign partners, providing a platform for exchanging experiences and building international cooperation in the cultural sector. Kołobrzeg was represented by Mariusz Juszko from the Kołobrzeg Institute of Culture and Promotion and Krzysztof Mich from the Zbigniew Herbert Regional Cultural Centre. The main goals of the conference were to present the program's assumptions, showcase key projects, and emphasize the importance of cross-border collaboration.
The first day of the conference was introductory and conceptual. Presentations by representatives of public institutions from Poland, Norway, and Iceland emphasized the importance of international partnerships and the need for systemic support for the cultural sector. The focal point of the program was a presentation of the Culture Programme: its objectives, priorities, and financing mechanisms. Particular attention was paid to predefined projects implemented by key cultural institutions in collaboration with international partners. These projects encompass a wide range of activities, from the protection and promotion of cultural heritage, through the development of museums and libraries, to educational and social initiatives.
The second day of the conference was more workshop-based and focused on the practical aspects of project implementation. Participants participated in seminars and group work, where they discussed best practices in international cooperation and ways to build lasting partnerships between institutions. A strong emphasis was placed on the importance of networking as a key element of cultural projects. These meetings enabled them to establish new contacts, exchange experiences, and initiate future joint activities.
The conference clearly demonstrated that culture plays a crucial role not only in heritage preservation but also in building community and strengthening democracy. Its importance as a space for freedom of expression, intercultural dialogue, and a tool for social development, even outside large urban centers, was emphasized. A strong emphasis on international cooperation, knowledge exchange, and practical preparation for project implementation demonstrates that the Culture Programme aims not only to support individual initiatives but also to create lasting networks of cooperation within the European cultural sector.
