Enhancing European and International Cooperation of European Capitals of Culture

Steve was a member of the Selection Panel for European Capitals of Culture from 2012 to 2016. He chaired the panel for the last three years.  In that time, he reviewed over 140 bid books, and survived a similar number of presentations. He is the lead author of the Guide to Candidates on the European Commission’s website.  He was an adviser to the European parliament and ministries of culture in the production of the current ECOC Decision. He has also advised on the creation of the new national Capital of Culture programmes in France, Serbia, and the London Boroughs.   In 2017 he wrote the first survey of all Capitals and Cities of Culture programmes around the world (over 30 programmes and more than 400 cities since 1985) and writes an annual preview of Capitals of Culture (both on www.prasino.eu ).  Before the capitals of culture journey Steve had a 35-year career in international relations with the British Council and EUNIC. He is now enjoying retirement in Spain.