Cultural heritage and artistic freedom are crucial for building resilient, democratic, and inclusive societies. In times of crisis and conflict, culture is often at the forefront – precisely because it strengthens identity, cohesion, and hope. That’s why culture must form part of societal preparedness.
These messages were highlighted during a panel debate co-hosted by the Nordic Council of Ministers at MONDIACULT 2025, the world’s largest cultural policy conference, held in Barcelona from September 29 to October 1.
“Culture is resilience. In times of crisis, it must be at the core of our response. That’s why Nordic and international co-operation is essential to protect freedom, identity, and the voices at risk when it matters the most,” said Norway’s Minister of Culture and Equality, Lubna Jaffery, in her opening statement.
Finland’s Minister of Science and Culture Mari-Leena Talvitie, State Secretary to Sweden’s Minister for Culture Karin Svanborg-Sjövall, and Minister of Social Affairs and Culture of the Faroe Islands, Eirikur í Jákupsstovu, also took part in the event.
Nordic and international co-operation is key
The Nordic Council of Ministers is working to strengthen the role of culture in crisis preparedness by enhancing the exchange of experiences within the cultural sector, both within the Nordic Region and internationally. The aim is to ensure that culture remains a cornerstone of resilience, democracy, and social cohesion. Discussions on stronger co-operation in the field of culture and preparedness were also a key theme when the ministers for culture met earlier this spring and decided to prepare a joint Nordic initiative to reinforce cross-sector dialogue on the role of culture in societal security.
“Culture is a resource in times of peace – and a lifeline in times of crisis. To protect culture in crisis is to protect humanity itself and society’s resilience,” said Eirikur í Jákupsstovu, Minister of Social Affairs and Culture of the Faroe Islands.
At the MONDIACULT event, it was emphasized that the Nordic countries share a strong community of values rooted in democracy, freedom of expression, and mutual trust. These are vital components in ensuring resilient societies that safeguard human and cultural rights. In a global context, the Nordic countries can lead the way in protecting cultural rights.
Finland’s and Åland’s Presidency of the Nordic Council of Ministers has emphasized how a strong cultural life, media literacy, and cultural diversity contribute to a resilient society by fostering cohesion, critical thinking, and democratic participation. It is essential that these topics are discussed in a global forum such as UNESCO’s MONDIACULT conference,” said Mari-Leena Talvitie, Finland’s Minister of Science and Culture.
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Two panel discussions at MONDIACULT explored both how culture contributes to social development and reconstruction, as well as how freedom of expression and artistic freedom enhance the regions’ capacity to cope with threats and crises. Panel participants included Abdullah Alkafri (Ettijahat-Independent Culture), Kristin Danielsen (Nordic Culture Fund), Deeyah Khan (UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador), and Denis Krivosheev (Amnesty International). The moderator was UNESCO Youth Delegate Iina-Lotta Kuisma.
Culture is Resilience – Nordics Step Up Preparedness Through Co-Operation, a press release from the Nordic Council.