Cultural policy needs space for discussion and the discussion needs structures - the State of Cultural Policy event, may 25 in Helsinki

Cultural policy needs space for dialogue — and dialogue, in turn, requires supportive structures.

For the first time, the Centre for Cultural Policy Research Cupore presents the State of Cultural Policy event, a new kind of forum for public discussion on cultural policy in Finland.

The programme features keynote speeches, panel discussions, and facilitated dialogues inspired by the findings of the State of Cultural Policy 2025 report. Event's discussions bring together arts and cultural practioners, funders, policymakers, and other experts to reflect on the current state and future directions of cultural policy in Finland.

The programme will be held primarily in Finnish, with selected sessions in Swedish and English.

The report as a starting point for dialogue

The State of Cultural Policy 2025 report will be published during the morning session. Based on recent research, the report offers fresh perspectives on the development and evaluation of cultural policy in Finland.

The morning programme also includes commentary from representatives of the arts and cultural field, followed by a panel discussion exploring the current landscape of cultural policy and its key challenges and emerging opportunities.

The morning session is free and open to all, and can also be followed via livestream.

Imagining the future of cultural policy

The paid afternoon session invites participants into parallel, moderated discussions focusing on the future of cultural policy. Topics include cultural rights and responsibilities, the economic and societal value of culture, sustainability, and digital transformation.

The day concludes with reflections from invited speakers, offering diverse perspectives on where cultural policy may be heading.

Event Information

State of Cultural Policy event

Date: Monday, 25 May 2026, 9:00–17:00 
Venue: Lasipalatsi, Bio Rex (Mannerheimintie 22–24, Helsinki) 
Program: https://www.cupore.fi/en/the-state-of-cultural-policy-event/programme/
Registration: 15 April – 18 May 2026 

More information about the project and the event: 
https://www.cupore.fi/en/newsroom/state-of-cultural-policy-event/