Europa Nostra Issues Brussels Manifesto “Heritage Matters for Europe - Europe Matters for Heritage”
The Brussels Manifesto urges that Europe’s cultural and natural heritage be central to European strategies, budgets, and policies.
Background of the Brussels Manifesto
Europa Nostra, the leading European heritage civil society network, released the Brussels Manifesto “Heritage Matters for Europe – Europe Matters for Heritage” on behalf of the European Heritage Hub consortium. This manifesto is the main result of the European Cultural Heritage Summit 2025, held from October 12 to 15 in Brussels, the capital of the EU decision-making.
Key Messages from the European Cultural Heritage Summit
At the summit, representatives from civil society, policymakers, artists, heritage professionals, academics, and students emphasized:
- Europe’s shared heritage is a cornerstone of democracy, wellbeing, and resilience.
- Heritage plays a vital guiding role, especially at this critical time for Europe.
Context of the Manifesto
The Brussels Manifesto comes as the European Commission prepares to publish the Culture Compass for Europe and the next EU long-term budget (2028-2034), known as the Multiannual Financial Framework.
“For twenty years, the Faro Convention has shown that heritage is a living light — connecting communities, empowering citizens, and guiding Europe.”
Importance of Heritage in Europe’s Future
The manifesto highlights that heritage is not merely a relic of the past but a dynamic force that connects communities and empowers citizens, ensuring Europe’s future is built on strong cultural and natural foundations.
Author's summary: The Brussels Manifesto stresses placing Europe’s cultural and natural heritage at the heart of EU policies to nurture democracy, community, and resilience amid upcoming strategic frameworks.