EU ministers of culture meet in Nicosia to discuss cultural heritage protection

On June 2, 2026, the informal meeting of EU Ministers of Culture took place in Nicosia under the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the EU. Chaired by Deputy Minister of Culture Vasiliki Kassianidou, the summit focused on cultural rights, the impact of artificial intelligence on the cultural sector, and combating the illicit trafficking of cultural goods. Delegations arrived on June 1 and attended museum tours in Nicosia. During the proceedings, officials discussed the joint declaration 'Europe for Culture - Culture for Europe,' which is scheduled to be signed in Strasbourg by the end of June. The signing will involve the President of the European Commission, the President of the European Parliament, and the President of the Republic of Cyprus on behalf of the European Council. Participants also reviewed legislative approaches to protecting cultural heritage amidst modern challenges and armed conflicts. The meeting emphasized the responsibility of preserving culture as a fundamental human expression and a vital component of European values.