First Meeting of the “Liepāja 2027” Project Supervisory Board

The first meeting of the Supervisory Board for Liepāja – European Capital of Culture 2027 (Liepāja 2027) took place today at the Ministry of Culture. Established by Presidential Decree by the President of Latvia, H.E. Edgars Rinkēvičs, the Board is tasked with overseeing the preparation and implementation of this significant project, ensuring smooth coordination among all involved institutions.

“Liepāja being designated as the European Capital of Culture in 2027 presents a unique chance to elevate Latvia's profile on the international stage. This initiative will not only shine a spotlight on our rich cultural heritage but also deliver substantial social and economic benefits nationwide. It offers a broad development opportunity impacting education, employment, emotional well-being, environmental protection, tourism, trade, and transport. Furthermore, it enhances societal self-confidence, values, and a sense of belonging,” stated Agnese Logina, Minister of Culture and Chair of the Supervisory Board.

Gunārs Ansiņš, Chairman of the Liepāja City Council, added, “Liepāja 2027 transcends being a local or regional initiative; it represents a national endeavour to fortify the cultural sector, enhance the country's image, and stimulate economic growth. It also aims to develop infrastructure and foster cooperation at both national and international levels. Today's meeting of the Supervisory Board demonstrated that this is not just my opinion, but one shared by all parties involved in the Board, empowering us to advance our objectives as a cohesive unit.”

During the meeting, the Board approved its Regulations, which outline its functions and tasks. Key responsibilities include supervising the Project's content and financial management, overseeing the utilization of state budget co-financing, making recommendations on various Project-related matters, and facilitating communication between Liepāja City Municipality, South Kurzeme Regional Municipality, Kuldīga Regional Municipality, the Cabinet of Ministers, national authorities, other municipalities, entrepreneurs, and non-governmental organizations.

The Supervisory Board for Liepāja – European Capital of Culture 2027 is required to convene at least twice a year and report annually to the President of Latvia on the progress of the project. The Board's decisions will be advisory.

Chaired by the Minister of Culture, the Board includes figures such as the Ministers of Finance, Economy, Foreign Affairs, Environmental Protection and Regional Development, and Transport. Additionally, it includes the Presidential Adviser on Communications, the Director of the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia, the Head of Administration of the Kurzeme Planning Region, the Chairs of Liepāja City Council, South Kurzeme Regional Council, and Kuldīga Regional Council, as well as the Director of the Centre for Public Policy “PROVIDUS.”

During the meeting, representatives from the Ministry of Culture highlighted that the information report titled “On State Co-financing for the Implementation of the European Capital of Culture 2027 Project” has been submitted for inter-institutional coordination via the draft legislation website. Once approvals are secured, the report will be reviewed by the Cabinet of Ministers, and the necessary state budget co-financing for the project’s full implementation over the next three years will be approved.

The Foundation “Liepāja 2027” provided the Supervisory Board with an update on the use of the 2024 funding and the plans for the remainder of the year. The Ministry of Culture has allocated 490,000 euros from the state budget for the preparation of the “Liepāja – European Capital of Culture 2027” program in 2024, under an agreement with the Liepāja Culture Department.

About the European Capital of Culture:

The European Capital of Culture title has been awarded annually since 1985. Its aim is to foster a greater understanding of the diverse cultures within Europe, highlighting shared histories and values, and promoting a sense of belonging to the European community. The title also seeks to develop cultural connections and partnerships across Europe and underscore the role of culture in urban development.

The title of European Capital of Culture is awarded annually to one city in each of two EU Member States. In 2027, Liepāja in Latvia and Evora in Portugal will share this prestigious honour.

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