5 November 2025 - 14.30-16.00 / Hemicycle of the Council of Europe

INTERPRETATION: FR/EN

A vibrant cultural life is the backbone of democratic security. Arts and culture foster pluralism, critical thinking, and public reflection—strengthening resistance to authoritarianism. But when artistic freedom is restricted, democratic backsliding often follows. While technology has expanded creative expression, it has also enabled mass manipulation.

This session will explore how cultural policies can safeguard artistic freedom, promote democratic values, and empower artists to shape public debate and foster engagement in a technology-driven world.