Culture Converge 2026

Promoting democracy through socio-culture

In their role as spaces for dialogue and cultural resistance, socio-cultural centres are uniquely positioned to actively protect freedom of expression, counter dominant narratives, and bridge divides between different parts of our increasingly polarised societies. At Culture Converge 2026 in Lisbon, we will discover, discuss, and collectively negotiate new approaches and strategies to empower citizens through socio-culture and nurture trust within communities facing fragmentation and disinformation.

A reflection on digital practices and spaces

Today, tackling the issue of democratic participation also means rethinking our approach to the digital domain. Culture Converge 2026 will be an opportunity to explore ways to navigate the digital disruption critically and together; an invitation to conceive the possibility of digital practices and platforms that truly connect us, and, in some instances, of opting out altogether.

A transversal approach

Hosted by our member Carpintarias de São Lázaro, the event is open to both ENCC members and non-members from all over Europe and beyond. We welcome socio-culture practitioners and any other interested stakeholders, such as students, academics, artists, activists, representatives of civil society organisations, as well as local and European-level policy makers. We will learn from inspiring practices already in place, and work together to shape long-term, cross-sectorial strategies and approaches to the issues at stake, within and beyond Europe.

Ticketing for the event will open in the first week of February