Date: 29 September 2026
Time: 16:00–18:00 CEST
Participation: Online, free to attend
How can Europe develop a more diverse, fair and sustainable approach to artificial intelligence and what role can the cultural heritage sector play in shaping it?
On 29 September 2026, Europeana will host “INNOVATE. PROTECT. EMPOWER. How cultural heritage can make Public AI a reality”, a high-level online Policy Talk organised in the framework of the European Heritage Hub EU-funded Preparatory Action.
The two-hour event will explore the vision of Public AI and the potential for a distinct European approach to artificial intelligence grounded in the public interest. It will consider how cultural heritage organisations can contribute to the development and deployment of AI and help shape a more diverse, fair and sustainable AI ecosystem in Europe.
From cultural heritage to Public AI
The discussion will address key questions around the relationship between cultural heritage and AI:
- What role should the cultural heritage sector play in the development and deployment of AI?
- Can Europe promote an approach to AI grounded in the public interest?
- How can cultural heritage contribute to a more diverse, fair and sustainable AI ecosystem?
- What policy changes and investments are needed to make this vision a reality?
The Policy Talk builds on a European Heritage Hub policy paper on Public AI and aims to strengthen understanding of the cultural heritage sector’s potential contribution to this emerging agenda.
A particular focus will be placed on developing shared policy priorities and exploring the creation of a Cultural Heritage Coalition for Public AI, bringing together stakeholders around a common vision and supporting future cooperation.
Towards a European AI strategy for culture
The event also comes at an important moment for European policy. Discussions will contribute to the wider policy debate ahead of the European Commission’s forthcoming AI Strategy for the Cultural and Creative Sectors, planned for 2027, while also reflecting on other EU policies and initiatives shaping the future of AI and cultural heritage.
The Policy Talk will bring together political leadership, practical experiences and strategic dialogue, with the aim of sharing evidence and inspiring practices, identifying the cross-sector partnerships needed to advance a Public AI agenda, and building momentum for future collaboration.
For the cultural heritage community, the event offers an opportunity to engage with an important discussion about how Europe’s rich cultural knowledge, data and institutions can contribute to shaping the future of AI.