Realising a successful V.18 European Capital of Culture involves obligations and constant work over the next six years.  ECoCs inevitably have large-scale cultural programmes which take immense planning.  But the success of Valletta 2018 lies not only in an impressive array of one-off events, but also in our ability to create a positive legacy – socially, economically and culturally sustainable – to serve our communities and Malta’s visitors well into the future.

The Valletta bid presents our potential. As such, it could become one of the most upbeat moves we’re witnessing in recent times, and there’s every reason for us to realise it.  But what is it we hope V.18 will bring about?

V.18, a catalyst for change  

V18 foresees setting in motion a culture-led regeneration, “incentivising and sustaining the economy of culture”.  In Valletta 2018, the cultural and commercial are to be mutually beneficial players.

Preparing for the title is already giving us the opportunity to address important and long-standing issues related to the cultural sector as well as society in general.

The candidacy phase can be beneficial to the whole of Malta in providing the various sectors of society with the opportunity to tackle its deficit of cultural infrastructure, to develop more sound and sustainable policies which address tourism, the environment and sustainable development more holistically, and re-think the ways in which Malta perceives itself and encourages others to perceive its many and diverse cultural identities.

Holding the title would help develop a refined sense of pride and ownership in the various localities collaborating with Valletta, as well as contribute to the development of a renewed space for the exchange of ideas and mobility of creative persons in close relation to Valletta.

For more on the potential benefits an ECoC year can bring, see our FAQs.