ASEF LinkUp | 2026 Edition in Slovenia

 

ASEF is proud to partner with Motovila Institute, a Ljubljana based non-governmental institute aimed at promoting transnational and cross-sectoral cooperation in the cultural and creative sector, for the fourth edition of ASEF LinkUp | Asia-Europe Cultural Diplomacy Lab. 

This year's ASEF LinkUp will be held from 23 to 27 November 2026, in Ljubljana, Slovenia, and is being developed in cooperation with Slovenian partners, including the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovenia, the Ministry of Culture of Slovenia and Center Rog. 

What is ASEF LinkUp? 

Launched in 2023, ASEF LinkUp | Asia-Europe Cultural Diplomacy Lab brings cultural professionals, practitioners, government and public sector representatives working in the international cultural cooperation field closer. 

As a vital meeting point for 20 arts and public sector representatives, ASEF LinkUp offers opportunities for exchange of ideas, perspectives and experiences, with the ultimate aim of reimagining Asia-Europe cultural relations for today's realities.

What is the Focus of ASEF LinkUp 2026? 

With the theme Sustainability, Ethics and Equity in International Cultural Relations, this edition asks: how do we evolve towards more reciprocal, equitable and co-created forms of engagement? Who sets the terms, and who has access? How do smaller states define and practice cultural cooperation in their own contexts?

Each edition of ASEF LinkUp builds upon the last, integrating learnings from its previous ASEF LinkUp Fieldbook and How Do We Navigate Cultural Diplomacy? Key Learnings, Challenges and Takeaways report, to build a growing case for international cultural exchanges in increasingly complex environments. 

The call for participants from the arts and cultural sector will be launched soon. Stay tuned for more updates!