Luxembourg’s KEP Cultural Strategy: 70% Implementation Milestone and What It Means

Luxembourg’s cultural landscape is undergoing a remarkable transformation, thanks to the steady progress of its national cultural policy, the Kulturentwécklungsplang 2018-2028 (KEP). As of December 2024, the Ministry of Culture reports that 70% of the KEP’s 62 recommendations have been implemented or are in progress-a significant achievement that signals both momentum and commitment to cultural growth.

Understanding the KEP: Luxembourg’s Blueprint for Culture

The KEP is Luxembourg’s first comprehensive national cultural development plan. Launched in 2018, it aims to create a dynamic, inclusive, and sustainable cultural ecosystem. The plan covers everything from governance and artistic creation to heritage preservation, accessibility, education, and the professionalization of cultural workers.

The KEP was developed through extensive consultation with cultural professionals and stakeholders. Over 260 cultural workers participated in workshops, shaping a roadmap that reflects the sector’s real needs and ambitions. The plan is structured into 10 chapters and 62 actionable recommendations, each tracked for progress and impact.

Recent Achievements: Turning Policy into Practice

Of the 62 recommendations, 18 have been fully realized, 43 are actively being implemented, and only one remains suspended. Here are some highlights from recent achievements:

• Revision of Public Art Law: Recommendation No. 20 led to the adoption of a new law in March 2023, introducing the “1% for art” principle. This means that a portion of every public construction budget is now dedicated to art projects, ensuring that creativity is woven into the fabric of public spaces. A new Commission for Artistic Arrangements was also established to guide both clients and artists through the public tender process.
• World Heritage Management: Recommendation No. 31 focused on the UNESCO World Heritage site “Luxembourg Old Town and its Fortifications.” In July 2024, UNESCO praised Luxembourg’s management as exemplary, and the country celebrated the 30th anniversary of the site’s listing with an inclusive virtual tour of the Citadel of Saint-Esprit. The citadel will partially open to the public from Easter 2025, making heritage more accessible to all.

Why This Matters: Real Impact for People and Communities

The KEP isn’t just about ticking boxes-it’s about making culture a living, breathing part of everyday life in Luxembourg. Here’s how the strategy is making a difference:

• Broader Access: The plan promotes cultural citizenship and ensures that everyone, regardless of background, can participate in and benefit from cultural life.
• Stronger Support for Artists: By professionalizing the sector and improving working conditions, the KEP helps artists and cultural workers thrive, fostering innovation and creativity.
• Heritage and Innovation: From preserving UNESCO sites to embracing digital culture, the strategy balances respect for tradition with a forward-looking embrace of new technologies and practices.
• Community and Inclusion: The KEP encourages dialogue, diversity, and collaboration across regions and disciplines, building a sense of shared identity and belonging.

What’s Next? Ongoing Commitment and Opportunities

With 70% of the plan in motion, Luxembourg is well on its way to achieving its cultural ambitions by 2028. The Ministry of Culture continues to monitor progress, adapt to new challenges, and engage with the cultural sector to ensure the plan remains relevant and impactful.

For artists, cultural organizations, and local communities, this is a time of opportunity. Whether you’re looking to participate in public art projects, explore heritage sites, or contribute to the evolving cultural conversation, the KEP’s progress means more support and more ways to get involved.

Actionable Steps for Cultural Stakeholders

• Stay Informed: Follow updates on the KEP’s progress at www.kep.lu, where you can track each recommendation and see how it connects to your interests.
• Get Involved: Participate in public consultations, workshops, and cultural events to help shape the future of culture in Luxembourg.
• Leverage Opportunities: Artists and organizations can tap into new funding, commissions, and partnerships made possible by the KEP’s initiatives.
• Celebrate and Share: Take advantage of new cultural offerings, from public art installations to heritage site openings, and share these experiences with your community.

Luxembourg’s cultural policy is a living example of how thoughtful planning, collaboration, and sustained investment can create a vibrant, inclusive, and resilient cultural sector. With 70% of the KEP strategy now realized, the country is setting a benchmark for others to follow.

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