Ahead of the next EU-UK Summit, we write as representatives of the cultural and creative sector from across the EU and the UK to underline the importance of cultural exchange as a vital part of the EU-UK relationship, and to call for meaningful progress in addressing the barriers that continue to limit it.
The Common Understanding agreed at the 2025 EU-UK Summit in which both parties committed to support cultural exchange and the activities of touring artists sent a strong political signal and was warmly welcomed by the sector. However, since then, there has been no dedicated formal dialogue nor tangible progress.
Culture is Europe’s most powerful connector. Yet current arrangements for touring and other forms of creative collaboration are weakening that connection and undermining a sector that delivers economic value, global influence and shared cultural understanding.
Ten years on from the UK’s referendum, the 2026 Summit presents a critical opportunity to tackle its unintended consequences, unlocking opportunities for performers, artists, crews, businesses and audiences across Europe.
The scale of support for action is clear. Alongside sustained and widespread industry campaigning, there is strong political will on both sides for closer cultural ties. This is reflected in the work of the EU–UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly, the EU and UK Domestic Advisory Groups on the TCA, the UK Government’s manifesto commitment, and ties into the aims of the Culture Compass for Europe and the EU Visa Strategy.
The 2026 Summit should establish a structured EU-UK dialogue with a clear pathway to unlock the full potential of EU-UK cultural exchange. This should include practical solutions for the movement of touring professionals and essential equipment, as well as the UK’s cooperation and involvement in European programmes, such as Creative Europe, which facilitate international partnerships and exchange.