The competition for the title of Baltic Sea Region Cultural Pearl 2026 has attracted significant interest from small and medium-sized municipalities across the region. A total of 16 cities have already expressed their intent to participate, confirming the growing recognition of culture as a powerful tool for strengthening community resilience.
This marks the third call launched within the “BSR Cultural Pearls” project, co-financed by the Interreg Baltic Sea Region Programme 2021–2027. The initiative supports municipalities in developing action plans that use cultural and creative resources to build socially resilient communities.
Latvia has seen notable success in this initiative:
- Rūjiena was awarded the title for 2024
- Smiltene holds the title for 2025
These examples demonstrate how Latvian cities are contributing meaningfully to the international cultural landscape.
Currently, two Latvian municipalities—Cesvaine and Rēzekne—are working with mentors and partners from Estonia, Germany, Lithuania, Poland, and Finland to prepare their cultural and social resilience action plans. All applicants receive tailored support, including:
- Guidance from national mentors
- Thematic workshops
- Access to best practices and communication resources
Egija Saļņikova, head of the selection process, explains: “Each participating city—regardless of the final result—receives substantial support to create an action plan that’s strategic, community-focused, and sustainable.”
The deadline for final action plan submissions is October 16, 2025. The 2026 Cultural Pearls will be announced on November 10, 2025. In total, three municipalities will receive the title and support to implement their plans throughout 2026.
Felix Schartner Giertta, Project Manager at the Council of the Baltic Sea States Secretariat, notes: “This initiative strengthens local communities by empowering them to use culture as a driver for social well-being, inclusion, and participation.”
Municipalities interested in applying can learn more at www.culturalpearls.eu.
