Our Vision

We believe that a peaceful and prosperous future is not possible without culture, and that there is an urgent need for open cultural exchange. Our Vision for the Future emphasizes the role of networks and cultural initiatives that create connections, shine light on untold stories, and foster understanding. We strive to amplify culture’s transformative power and foster a world in which culture thrives.

Networks for Exchange  - Networks for Exchange include all kinds of new connections between people and/or organisations. They may be once-off meetings, international travel, temporary collaborations with a specific aim, longer-term partnerships, regional hubs or long-lasting relationships. Through each new connection, there will be what Martiniquan philosopher, Edouard Glissant called a positive ‘change in exchanging without losing oneself’.

Alternative Narratives - Alternative Narratives are stories, explanations, or histories that are different from the dominant discourses and mostly ignored, suppressed or under threat. For society to be more inclusive, people need to be heard and seen – they need to be understood. Alternative narratives come in different forms: artistic expressions in all disciplines as well as historical artefacts and other cultural heritage. We focus on these seldom-heard narratives that are relevant to a given context and that foster inclusive societies.

Growth of People and Organisations - The Growth of People and Organisations involves helping people develop their talents, skills, and organisational capacities. It implies the broadening of horizons: all things that happen when people have access to opportunities. The Prince Claus Fund facilitates networks, research, courses and travel for exposure that opens perspectives, allows people to ‘develop themselves’ and ‘change through exchanging’. The Fund also contributes to the overall knowledge base about Culture and Development through research, and by monitoring and evaluating supported activities.