Conferences on Culture and Pandemic: What Must Change

A conference organized by Associazione Civita analyzed the recovery plans of Italy, Spain, France, Germany, and Portugal, focusing on strategies and investments for the cultural sector. Speakers included Gianni Letta, Paolo Gentiloni, Valla, De Masi, and Amendola, moderated by Simonetta Giordani. The article argues that such conferences must move beyond analysis to produce concrete actions and agreements, especially with government officials present. It criticizes the traditional format of opening remarks by dignitaries followed by presentations and virtual buffets, calling for a more operational, continental style. The author emphasizes that culture should become daily consumption and democratic reflection, not a leisurely pastime. The piece highlights the need for actionable collaboration between Italian and European governments to support micro-enterprises in culture, and for ready-made tools from academia to share research funds with businesses. The article is an opinion piece by Stefano Monti, a partner at Monti&Taft, published on Artribune.