EU cultural relations with its Southern Neighbours

This paper aims to highlight the role of culture and the arts in the European Neighbourhood Policy, in particular with the Southern Mediterranean countries. In light of the recent EU policy developments on international cultural relations, this paper exposes, with examples of successful EU projects and activities, (i) the contribution of culture to employment in the region, (ii) the impact of strengthened cultural relations to prevent conflict and violent extremism while promoting peace and reconciliation, and (iii) the role of such cultural relations in reinforcing human rights and democracy. It also recommends some concrete actions to be taken at regional level.