This high-level Policy Talk is organised by Europeana in the frame of the European Heritage Hub EU-funded Preparatory Action, with the vital input of the Hub consortium. Europeana draws on over 15 years of experience in supporting the digital transformation of the sector, including as steward of the common European data space for cultural heritage - a flagship action of the Culture Compass for Europe.

The Policy Talk will explore the vision of building a truly distinct, European approach to Artificial Intelligence - Public AI - and the role the cultural heritage sector can play in shaping it. It will address the following questions:

- What role should the cultural heritage sector play in the development and deployment of AI? How can it contribute to a more diverse, fair and sustainable AI ecosystem in Europe?

- Is there an alternative vision for AI - one grounded in the public interest? Can Europe champion such an approach, and how can the cultural heritage sector help enable it?

- And concretely, what policy changes and investments are needed to make this vision a reality?

Public AI is gaining traction across the public sector as a more democratic, pluralistic and publicly accountable alternative AI ecosystem. The discussion will be based on the European Heritage Hub's Policy paper on the same topic. Through the Policy Talk and accompanying policy paper, the European Heritage Hub aims to position the cultural heritage sector as a driving force within the broader Public AI movement in Europe. During the Policy Talk, we will jointly advocate for shared policy priorities, and for the creation of a much-needed Cultural Heritage Coalition for Public AI, gathered around a shared vision.

The Policy Talk aims to inform the forthcoming European Commission AI Strategy for the Cultural and Creative Sectors (planned for 2027). It will also reflect on other EU policies and initiatives shaping the future of AI and cultural heritage.

Objectives and expected outcomes

• Promote the visibility and uptake of the Policy Paper and its policy recommendations;
  
• Jointly advocate for shared policy priorities, and for the creation of a Cultural Heritage Coalition for Public AI, gathered around a shared vision;
  
• Share evidence, experiences and inspiring practices from Europe and beyond;
  
• Promote a shared understanding of the cultural heritage sector's role and contribution in shaping Public AI in Europe;
  
• Put forward a clearer understanding of the cross-sectoral partnerships needed to advance a Public AI agenda;
  
• Create momentum for coordinated advocacy and future collaboration to inform the forthcoming AI Strategy for the Cultural and Creative Sectors and discussions around the next MFF of the EU.
  

Format and duration

The Policy Talk will be a fully online, high-level two-hour event combining political leadership, practical inspiration and strategic dialogue.