In a rapidly evolving digital landscape and related policies, where Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technological advancements are reshaping industries, the Action Group on Digital & AI, facilitated by Culture Action Europe and the Michael Culture Association, is stepping forward to protect and promote Europe’s Cultural and Creative Sectors (CCS). With a mission to ensure that digital policies align with the unique needs and values of the CCS, this group is dedicated to ethical and human-centered policy development, addressing the multifaceted challenges and opportunities in this digital age.

The mission statement results from a consultation process – both via workshops and a survey – involving various CCS professionals, including cultural institutions, artists, and digital experts. The questions of the survey were co-created with the members and have been the subject of 2 different workshops. This document aims to set out clear missions reflecting commonalities in concerns, priorities, and aspirations of the cultural and creative sectors: the objective is to align policies with the needs of cultural professionals.

Read our Mission Statement

• Advocating for Ethical Digital Transformation

The Action Group’s approach emphasizes a human lens in digital transformation, prioritizing the protection of cultural rights, intellectual property, and fair compensation for creators. Transparency in data usage, accountability in AI applications, and ethical standards for digital tools are critical goals.

•  Addressing Copyright and Intellectual Property

A core focus of the Action Group is advocating for coherent and updated copyright laws that protect cultural professionals. As AI technologies increasingly incorporate cultural data, ensuring fair compensation and transparency has become urgent. The group actively campaigns for EU policies that support creators’ rights, address misuse of copyrighted material, and establish clearer guidelines for digital content.

• Responding to the AI Revolution

With AI becoming central to digital policy discussions, the Action Group on Digital & AI is proactively involved in shaping post-AI Act policies. By collaborating with the EU’s AI Office Working Group, the Action Group aims to develop a framework for transparent and ethical use of AI in the CCS, including options for creators to opt into data sharing and for watermarking AI-generated content. Through continued education and advocacy, the group equips the CCS with knowledge about AI’s impact, legal considerations, and its potential to enhance creative expression responsibly.

This mission represents a call to action for cultural professionals and organizations to join in creating a more just, ethical, and inclusive digital space for Europe’s culture and creativity.