Call for Applications Launched for Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue 2028

The Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), in partnership with the Anna Lindh Foundation (ALF), has officially opened the application process for the prestigious title of Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue (MCCD) 2028. This initiative seeks to designate two cities, situated on opposite shores of the Mediterranean, to lead a year-long cultural program in 2028.

The program's core objectives are to foster intercultural dialogue, promote inclusion, and enhance regional cooperation across the Mediterranean basin. The call for candidacies is open to local and regional authorities from all UfM member states. Cities of any size, whether coastal or inland, are invited to submit proposals that combine an ambitious local cultural vision with a strong Euro-Mediterranean dimension.

Selected cities will be responsible for implementing a comprehensive cultural program throughout 2028. This will involve mobilizing civil society, educational institutions, cultural actors, and local communities. The year's activities will culminate in a major celebration coinciding with the Mediterranean Day on November 28, 2028.

Applications will be rigorously evaluated based on several criteria, including the quality of the proposed program, its Euro-Mediterranean added value, the engagement of civil society, governance and management capacity, financial viability, communication strategy, environmental considerations, and the cooperation framework between the two designated Capitals. The evaluation process will be managed jointly by the UfM Secretariat and the ALF Secretariat, under the guidance of UfM senior officials and supported by an Advisory Committee comprising representatives from the UfM, ALF, and the Euro-Mediterranean Regional and Local Assembly (ARLEM). The deadline for submissions is August 31, 2026, at 12:00 PM CEST.