The contribution of culture to the fight against poverty and social exclusion
As part of the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the French Community of Belgium has made the “European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion” a priority theme by emphasising the value of culture as a vector for social cohesion, critical analysis and awareness-raising, and for changing the model of society.
The European Union wishes to re-affirm the importance of collective responsibility in the struggle against poverty which commits decision-makers as well as participants from the public and private sectors. The struggle against poverty and social exclusion directly concerns and involves cultural policies. Therefore, the objective will be to emphasise the contribution made by culture to social cohesion and equality.
Among the main challenges, access, participation and cultural education, the need to develop synergies between cultural, educational, youth, and social policies, the fight against stereotypes, and the transversality of culture will receive particular attention.
