MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on Sarajevo as a European Capital of Culture 2014

2.5.2011

further to Questions for Oral Answer B7‑0215/2011 and B7‑0061/2011
pursuant to Rule 115(5) of the Rules of Procedure

Doris Pack on behalf of the Committee on Culture and Education

B7‑0281/2011

European Parliament resolution on Sarajevo as a European Capital of Culture 2014

The European Parliament,

–   having regard to Article 167(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

–   having regard to Decision No 1622/2006/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 October 2006 establishing a Community action for the European Capital of Culture event for the years 2007 to 2019[1],

–   having regard to the Memorandum of Understanding establishing the terms and conditions for full participation of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Culture Programme 2007-2013 signed on 21 December 2010,

–   having regard to Rules 115(5) and 110(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

A. whereas a Community action entitled ‘European Capital of Culture’ has been established in order to highlight the richness and diversity of European cultures and the features they share, as well as to promote greater mutual understanding between Europeans,

B.  whereas the above-mentioned decision establishing a Community action for the European Capital of Culture event for the years 2007 to 2019 currently applies only to the EU Member States,

C. whereas on several occasions cities from third European countries have been given the opportunity to win the title of European Capital of Culture,

D. whereas Sarajevo has a special place in European history and culture and will commemorate several important anniversaries in 2014,

E.  whereas the City Council of Sarajevo and local cultural operators have undertaken extensive preparations in their candidature for this title,

1.  Calls on the Council to award the title of European Capital of Culture exceptionally to Sarajevo in 2014;

2.  Believes that this would be an important step towards transcending past European divisions and showcasing the New Europe by awarding the title of European Capital of Culture to a city which was the site of such tragic events in the course of the 20th century;

3.  Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, and the Committee of the Regions.

• [1]  OJ L 304, 3.11.2006, p. 1.