Safeguarding Cultural Rights In Times Of Crisis: Mediterranean Nations Unite For Change
During an online meeting of the MED9 Ministers, themed “Cultural Rights in Times of Crisis: Contemporary Challenges and Perspectives,” representatives from nine southern and Mediterranean EU member states—Malta, Croatia, Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Slovenia and Spain—gathered to discuss the growing challenges facing cultural rights.
“Cultural rights are under pressure worldwide, with some attempting to define culture by focusing on one aspect while excluding others, such as religion, ethnicity or political beliefs. Moreover, global issues such as ongoing conflicts, climate change and pandemics place additional strain on the social fabric and disrupt the cultural sector by limiting participation and accessibility,” stated the Minister for National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government, Owen Bonnici.
He explained that Malta is also exploring ways to advance the concept of cultural justice through the creation of a specific project, still in its early stages. This initiative aims to empower people to address cultural issues consciously, critically and participatively, ensuring that individuals can live according to their culture without infringing on the rights and freedoms of others.
Minster Bonnici also noted that the Mediterranean region is particularly exposed to these currents and pressures. He explained that these trends permeate our social fabric, especially through the population movements brought about by globalisation. In this regard, he stressed that global threats to the enjoyment of cultural rights require responses that not only address the root causes but also provide tailored solutions that leverage a country’s strengths to maintain social cohesion, particularly in the face of extreme ideologies.
To address these challenges, Malta introduced its National Cultural Policy in 2021, which focuses on enhancing cultural accessibility. The policy is divided into eight distinct areas and considers cultural access as the fundamental approach to uniting diverse communities, regardless of age, vulnerabilities or social background. The aim is to foster social inclusion, with the government supporting the creation of community cultural spaces wherever possible.
Minister Bonnici further stated that Malta believes EU member states are in the best position to address issues related to cultural rights due to their understanding and expertise in dealing with the challenges affecting their societies.
He concluded by saying that Malta considers this discussion as happening at a highly opportune moment and views the MED9 as a platform for reflection, reassessment and transformative change, addressing both challenges and opportunities.