Culture in the Sustainable Development Goals: The Role of the European Union

Abstract

Agenda 2030 is the most comprehensive and ambitious agenda for development the world has ever seen. Culture forms part of this agenda. The Sustainable Development Goals provide pathways for culture to flourish, but culture also helps to drive the SDGs. The European Union and its 27 member states have pledged to deliver on the global agenda. Europe has much to contribute, and much to learn. The purpose of this study is twofold. Its first objective is to take stock of the European Union’s progress in reaching the cultural goals and targets of Agenda 2030. Five years after the adoption of Agenda 2030, where does the EU find itself? With only ten years left to realise the SDGs, where is the EU heading? Secondly, the paper will explore a limited number of potential policy priorities. How can the EU and EU member states maximise their impact? Where should the EU focus its efforts?