Invitation to the cultural sector: Lithuania in Germany Culture Programme
A presentation was held to outline the guiding principles of the Lithuania in Germany Culture Programme 2027. During the event, cultural institutions, non-governmental organisations, and artists and cultural professionals were introduced to the programme’s objectives, implementation timeline, and funding framework.
“This cultural programme offers exceptional opportunities for dialogue between Lithuanian and German artists and cultural professionals, grounded in shared European values, experiences, and the development of future-oriented visions. We invite cultural institutions, non-governmental and academic organisations, as well as individual artists and cultural professionals, to actively seek partners in Germany and use this platform to build sustainable cultural ties that strengthen societal resilience. Your ideas will help position Lithuania as a dynamic and contemporary country in Germany and across Europe,” said Minister of Culture Vaida Aleknavičienė.
“The Lithuania in Germany Culture Programme creates space for open and meaningful dialogue. It is important to us that Lithuanian and German artists and cultural professionals, cultural institutions, and organisations can meet, learn from one another, and develop long-term partnerships. Culture functions here as an active practice that strengthens resilience. Today, more than ever, cooperation with strategic partners in Europe is essential – together we are stronger,” said Rita Valiukonytė, representative of the Lithuanian Culture Institute, director of the Lithuania in Germany Culture Programme.
Projects are encouraged to explore fundamental questions: what unites and divides our societies, how we engage with the unfamiliar, and what value diversity brings. The programme’s thematic framework – time, space, and people – invites creative reflection across disciplines.
A key priority is to bring smaller narratives and stories to the forefront, placing them within broader contexts of meaning. Particular attention will therefore be given to everyday culture and micro-histories. The scope of activities is broad, encompassing visual and performing arts, classical and contemporary music, literature, architecture, design, fashion, digital media, cultural heritage, and memory culture. Participants are also encouraged to actively involve young people in decision-making and creative processes.
The Lithuania in Germany Culture Programme will be implemented in 2027–2028, with the main focus on 2027, while 2028 will be dedicated to concluding activities and consolidating results. The Government has allocated a total budget of EUR 2.2 million for the programme cycle, with additional funding expected from partners and sponsors. The programme for Lithuania’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union in Germany is also being integrated into this process, with EUR 450,000 allocated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Three stages of funding calls are planned. The first will be launched in October 2026, with results announced in early 2027. The second call is scheduled for the first quarter of 2027, and the third – for the end of the same year.
Projects may be submitted by non-governmental organisations, public institutions, and artists and cultural professionals based in Lithuania and Germany. A key requirement is to have an engaged partner in Germany. Applicants who do not yet have established contacts will be supported by the programme organisers. Projects may be implemented across all German federal states.
Last updated: 24-03-2026