Is culture still desirable? Takeaways from ThinkCulture Paris

On 8 September, I attended ThinkCulture 2026, organised by News Tank Culture at the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie in La Villette, Paris. Bringing together cultural professionals, institutions and organisations, the event revolved around the thematic: Is culture still desirable today?

Throughout the day, speakers and panellists explored the place culture occupies in our societies, its relevance in a changing world, and the ways in which we can continue to make it accessible and meaningful. Although discussions were largely rooted in the French context, many of the ideas raised resonated well beyond national borders.

What is Culture?

Several definitions of culture emerged throughout the discussions; it could be described as something that enables us to make meaning of things; as being the heart of society; as a way to see the world differently and emancipate ourselves; provides space for ethical and intellectual reflection; strengthen critical thinking, etc.

Taken together, these perspectives suggest that culture is not just something to be consumed or created on the spot. It is a means through which we interpret the world, connect with others and develop the capacity to become active participants in shaping it, quite essential to determine the paths we want societies to take in achieving certain development goals.

What place does culture have in rural areas?

One particularly relevant discussion questioned whether rural and peripheral areas are being left behind when it comes to cultural opportunities. While some territories may lack dedicated infrastructure and facilities, at least in the case of France, presenters shared something we know well through our work at SEED: the importance of cooperation.

They easily came to the conclusion that local partnerships and collaboration, even outside the area and with limited physical infrastructure, can enable cultural and social innovation. Actually, fewer formal resources could even be accompanied by stronger community networks.

The experience shared by Scènes et Territoires in the Grand Est was particularly interesting. A cultural event attracting fewer people than an equivalent event in a major city can still have an impactful effect when considered in proportion to the local population and the relationships it creates within a  smaller community.

The challenge, however, is not only to initiate these processes but to sustain them over time. Once an initiative has begun, how do we ensure that communities have the resources, structures and motivation to continue?

Culture beyond measurable outcomes

Former UNESCO Director-General and French Minister of Culture Audrey Azoulay highlighted the role of culture in building multilateral cooperation and contributing to peace, mentioning the organisations’ roles in advocating for greater recognition. Indeed, this discussion concerned the place given to culture within public policy; as culture does not necessarily respond to a specific service or need, it can make it difficult to position it alongside activities considered “essential”. Internationally speaking, culture does not stand as a dedicated goal within the UN Sustainable Development Goals, yet its value extends across many dimensions of society, making it hardly measurable through its contribution to economic development, social cohesion or other policy objectives.

Protecting cultural life requires more than structuring/ instrumentalising and funding individual activities: it requires mobilisation, political recognition and continued advocacy for culture's role within wider development agendas.

A continuing desire for culture

If one message emerged clearly from ThinkCulture, it is that the desire for culture has not disappeared. If anything, the growing need for socialisation, shared experiences and meaningful interaction gives cultural spaces, heritage and traditions, events and festivals renewed relevance.

Culture creates opportunities to meet, question, imagine and experience the world collectively. Perhaps the question is therefore not simply whether culture is still desirable, but how we make sure everyone has the opportunity to participate in shaping it.