Culture Next (CN) Network together with Larnaka 2030 European Capital of Culture, member of the Culture Next network, will host the 16th Culture Next Conference from 6–8 May 2026 under the theme “Culture for CCS – Empowering the Cultural & Creative Sectors”. The three-day event will bring together representatives from approximately 50 European cities, as well as representatives from the cultural and creative sector. A dedicated Public Day on 7 May will engage local stakeholders and link the discussions to the celebrations of Europe Day in Larnaka.
Recently named European Capital of Culture 2030, Larnaka builds on the legacy of its European Capital of Culture 2030 bid, Common Ground. The concept envisions the city as a living laboratory where Europe can be reimagined as a space of togetherness and a democracy of care. Rooted in co-creation, it reflects Larnaka’s identity as a historic meeting point of cultures, a gateway between continents and a city shaped by migration. Common Ground calls on Europe to reconnect with “anthropia” — the deep human values that unite us — and promotes a caring, inclusive and sustainable model of coexistence through art and culture.
During the 16th Culture Next Conference, participants will explore sustainable governance models for cultural ecosystems, capacity building, and international networking. The programme will also highlight the realities faced by artists in exile and in war zones, including exchanges with organisations such as Musicians Without Borders and meetings with displaced cultural operators in Cyprus. Representatives from approximately 50 European cities will meet local artists and cultural organisations from Larnaka and the wider region. A Policy Paper on Empowering the CCS will be produced as a key outcome, positioning Larnaka at the centre of a broader European conversation on culture, resilience and social responsibility. International speakers and representatives from leading institutions and networks – including EIT Culture & Creativity, the European Commission Directorate-General for Education and Culture, and the EU-Japan Fest Japan Committee – are expected to contribute to the dialogue.
All logistical information, the detailed agenda and registration details are available on the conference page.
See you in Larnaka!
