"Culture in all its variety is the bond between the societies of the 27 EU member states. The European Union is much more than just a liberalised single market. Rather it should be considered a community of 27 countries with both common and different historic experiences and cultural attributes. To improve our mutual understanding, we need an increased exchange."

Knut Fleckenstein is excited about his mandate as a substitute member of the Committee on Culture and Education. This position enables him to continue his prior commitment to the Social Democratic Cultural Forum and his experience from his involvement in the Hamburg cultural policy on a European level.

The Committee on Culture and Education deals with the following policy areas:

• Culture policy
• Education policy and Lifelong Learning
• Multilingualism
• Audiovisual policy
• Youth policy
• Sports and Leisure policy
• Information and Media policy
• Cooperation with third countries and international organisations in the areas of culture and education

In most areas, it is still the national governments that have the say in drafting and executing political measures. The EU supports the member states and advocates an increased European cooperation.

Information about the Committee's members, meeting schedules, agendas and minutes can be found on its website. All work in progress, as well as working documents can be found here, as well.

Useful Links:
Committee meetings live!
Headlines on Culture and Education from the European Parliament
European Commission DG Culture and Education