The competition will serve as the first stage in selecting a national candidate, who will then participate in the pan-European selection process. Being awarded this status is viewed as an effective tool for urban development, capable of stimulating investment, tourism, creative industries, and the local economy.
All cities and municipalities in the Republic of Moldova, regardless of size, are eligible to participate in the competition. Applications must be submitted by local public authorities, which must confirm that they have the administrative and financial resources to prepare and implement a large-scale cultural program.
The selection process will take place in two stages. In the first stage, the jury will review the applications; thereafter, the selected cities will present their cultural projects in the final round.
Evaluation will be based on six main criteria: the project’s contribution to the city’s long-term development strategy, its European dimension, the quality of the cultural and artistic program, feasibility, community engagement, and the effectiveness of the management system.
The jury will consist of nine members: representatives of the Ministry of Culture and the National Office for Cultural Development, civil society experts, an international expert with experience in implementing European cultural programs, and a representative of local authorities delegated by the Congress of Local Authorities of Moldova (CALM).
The “European Capital of Culture” program is considered one of the European Union’s most prestigious cultural initiatives. It helps attract investment, modernize urban infrastructure, increase tourist traffic, and develop the local economy by unlocking cultural potential and supporting the creative industries.
