The second Hub Forum of the European Heritage Hub, which took place on 7th October 2024 in Bucharest, was a key event in the European Cultural Heritage Summit 2024. The forum attracted around 400 participants, some attending in person and others participating online. The discussions centred around responsible digital transformation, particularly focusing on the impact of artificial intelligence and actions addressing climate change.
During the forum, a document was presented titled “Championing a Responsible Digital Transition for and with Cultural Heritage’” This document, developed by 20 partners of the European Heritage Hub, led by Europa Nostra and the Europeana Foundation, reflects a diverse range of perspectives from heritage experts, policymakers, and representatives of civil society across Europe. Its purpose is to outline five priorities for advancing a holistic digital transformation in cultural heritage:
I. Prioritise cultural heritage as a resource for a holistic digital transformation in the 2024 – 2029 European Commission and Parliament agendas
II. Ensure strategic funding for the digital transformation of cultural heritage in the upcoming EU Multiannual Financial Framework
III. Support the development and uptake of sector-specific principles and guidelines for ethical use of Artificial Intelligence
IV. Invest in research and skills development to help heritage professionals reduce the environmental impact of digitisation and harness new technologies responsibly
V. Harness digital cultural heritage to inspire and promote environmentally responsible practices
In the coming months, the European Heritage Hub will focus on disseminating this document, urging policymakers to address the five outlined priorities, particularly as the newly elected EU institutions begin their mandate.
In early 2025, the third European Heritage Hub Forum will take place in Budva, Montenegro, continuing the discussions initiated in Bucharest, with a focus on the social transformation of the heritage sector.