Niksic Earns Title of European Capital of Culture for 2030

Niksic has made a significant mark on the cultural map of Europe by being named the European Capital of Culture for 2030. The announcement was made during a formal ceremony at the House of European History in Brussels, marking a pivotal recognition for the Montenegrin city. This accolade positions Niksic alongside prominent European cities and represents one of the most significant honors awarded to a city in Montenegro.

In a competitive selection process, Niksic triumphed against contenders, including the Ukrainian city of Lviv. The city successfully demonstrated to the panel from the European Commission that it possesses a clear vision for cultural development, an authentic identity, and a robust European dimension. This achievement is the result of extensive efforts by a dedicated team that developed the candidacy concept titled “Open City.”

This title heralds profound social, cultural, and economic transformations for Niksic. It provides the city with an opportunity to establish itself as a new hub for cultural, tourism, and creative development in the region. Additionally, it offers Montenegro a platform for international representation as a modern European state. The title of European Capital of Culture entails a rich cultural program and a host of long-term benefits, including improvements in cultural infrastructure, increased tourist arrivals, and strengthened local economies.

According to Mato Uljarevic, the project leader, various criteria were considered during the evaluation of the application, including long-term development strategy, the quality of the proposed artistic program, the project’s European dimension, management plans, social reach, and the capacity for implementation. Uljarevic noted that the unwavering support from both local and national levels, represented by Marko Kovacevic, the Mayor of Niksic, and Tamara Vujovic, the Minister of Culture and Media, played a crucial role in the successful application.

European Dimension and Cultural Impact

The European dimension was highlighted as a key criterion by the European Commission. Niksic’s application emphasized the integration of local and European heritage, the promotion of European values, and collaboration with other European Capital of Culture cities. Uljarevic mentioned that during the application process, Niksic had already established connections with over 420 European partners and received more than 250 letters of support.

The concept for the application was inspired by the radial urban planning of Josip Slade, Montenegro’s first urban planner. The new Niksic aims to reconnect with its European roots, echoing its historical role as a cultural and social center in the late 19th century.

Uljarevic emphasized that the project not only benefits Niksic but also has implications for the entire country. Projects of this magnitude can indirectly affect the entire region, engaging numerous municipalities. The initiative aims to showcase Montenegro as a prospective EU member, leveraging Niksic’s cultural renaissance.

Transformative Goals and Community Engagement

The European Capital of Culture project has the potential to reshape perceptions of Niksic and bolster civic pride. Uljarevic explained that culture serves as a catalyst for societal transformation. The title has been increasingly awarded to smaller post-industrial cities, like Niksic, that seek to redefine their identity and development strategies.

In anticipation of 2030, Niksic plans to focus on capacity-building projects within its artistic program. Acknowledging the limited resources available for such an undertaking, the project aims to enhance capacities across cultural institutions and the independent cultural scene.

The project will also incorporate diverse artistic expressions and aim to connect local narratives with universal European values. Uljarevic assured that the entire artistic community of Niksic would play a crucial role in this initiative, fostering inclusivity and participation among various social groups.

A significant aspect of the “Open City” initiative revolves around six specific goals: cultural, economic, social, urban, European, and national openness. This vision aims to establish a comprehensive framework for long-term urban development and transformation across key segments.

Uljarevic stressed that culture should be accessible to everyone, not just a select few. The project intends to engage citizens not merely as spectators but as active co-creators of cultural content. Plans are underway to launch the Openminders volunteer platform, inviting all societal groups to participate actively in the project.

As Niksic prepares for its role as the European Capital of Culture, expectations are high for the city to emerge as a cultural, social, and developmental epicenter in Montenegro by 2030. Uljarevic expressed confidence that this transformation is inevitable.

The title does not guarantee automatic financial support from the European Commission; rather, it opens doors for accessing EU funds. Niksic is poised to receive the Melina Mercouri Prize amounting to €1.5 million, contingent upon readiness for project implementation by 2029. Uljarevic highlighted that this is just a portion of the funding anticipated from various EU sources, including Creative Europe and IPA funds.

The projected budget for operational costs over the next six years is estimated at €40 million, with a similar amount allocated for infrastructural investments. The Montenegrin government and Niksic municipality have already committed to funding key expenses, alongside anticipated contributions from EU funds and private sector sponsorships.

The ongoing infrastructural projects in Niksic, including the long-awaited renovation of the House of Revolution, are expected to be completed by 2030. This facility aims to become a proud cultural center, alongside the revalorization of Bedem Fortress and the cultural-historical complex around the Castle of King Nikola.

Uljarevic concluded by asserting that the project aims to spur indirect economic benefits through tourism, job creation, and the development of local businesses. Historical data from previous European Capital of Culture cities indicate an average increase in tourism by 8% and a GDP growth of 4.5%, benefiting not only the host cities but entire regions.

As Niksic embarks on this transformative journey, the city is poised to embrace its cultural potential and redefine its identity on the European stage.