EU: a new role of culture in the intermediterranean cooperation

Abstract

The establishing, between the two shores of the Mediterranean, of relations focused on intercultural dialogue, diversity and development based on peace and coexistence appear to be the unavoidable response to recent terrorist attacks and to the humanitarian emergency. The important results jointly achieved by the EU Commission and the European Parliament in reaching agreements on splitting migrants and economic resources between the member states for dealing with such an emergency are presently endangered by a resurgence of populist and nationalist feelings. More efforts are needed toward a new euro-Mediterranean strategy in line with the «Barcelona Process», also in view of fostering intercultural and interreligious dialogue, as well as to safeguard the cultural heritage from destruction. The relevant role to be played by the intercultural cooperation in this direction will soon be supported and emphasized by the EU Commission, through its communication on Cultural Diplomacy presently in preparation.