By Geneviève Tuts and Ana Serrano
The world is changing. Long-standing alliances are evolving, economic priorities are shifting, and emerging technologies are reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace. At the same time, democratic institutions are facing new pressures. These realities raise important questions about our future—particularly how we position ourselves within an increasingly interconnected and competitive world.
One way forward is through stronger collaboration with democratic partners who share our commitment to innovation, human rights, and cultural exchange. Through the European Union-Canada Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA) and trade agreements like CETA, we have the opportunity to deepen our economic, diplomatic, and cultural ties. These partnerships support a future that values openness, creative industries, and a global outlook—one where Canada and the European Union remain engaged, forward-thinking, and competitive.
At the heart of this vision is cultural expression, which is not only about artistic practice but also about economic independence. Investing in the creative and cultural industries strengthens both the region's abilities to shape its own narratives, support innovation, and remain a leader in global markets. The intersection of technology and culture is particularly relevant, as artificial intelligence and automation continue to transform creative work, media, and public discourse. Ensuring a strong and independent cultural sector means equipping artists, designers, and thinkers with the resources and platforms they need to thrive in this new landscape.
Cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue, fundamental to democratic societies, will be a central theme at DemocracyXChange (DXC) 2025, Canada’s annual democracy summit, taking place April 3-5 in Toronto. Now in its sixth edition, DXC will bring together voices from across the country and around the world -including the European Union - to explore the connections between democracy, culture, and emerging technologies. Artists and designers will play a key role in these conversations, contributing perspectives on how creativity shapes democratic engagement and economic opportunity.
Artists are essential to the health of democracy. Through their work, they bring voice and perspective to reflect and translate reality, critique its very nature and propose creative alternatives to the status quo. As power structures shape and shift, artists act as a counterbalancing force, promoting transparency and accountability.
Through an open call, DXC 2025 will welcome three young artists from Canada and Europe to participate—not only as exhibitors but as leaders in discussions about democracy, technology, and the economy. Their work will be featured in the DXC Opening Night Exhibition on April 3, with interactive workshops on April 5 providing a space for dialogue with policymakers, business leaders, and civic innovators.
As we look ahead, the strength of its creative industries will be a defining factor in our regions’ economic and cultural resilience. The European Union has long recognized the importance of cultural diplomacy and creative entrepreneurship, investing in initiatives that support artistic expression and cultural industries. OCAD University’s partnership with the Delegation of the European Union to Canada within the framework of DXC strengthens these ties and reinforces the role of culture in shaping a vibrant, open society.
The choices made today will shape our role in the world for decades to come. Investing in creativity, fostering independent media, and expanding global partnerships are all part of ensuring a strong and dynamic future. DXC 2025 offers a platform to engage with these questions and set the course for what comes next. The future is being shaped now—who gets to be part of that conversation?
_Geneviève Tuts is the Ambassador of the European Union to Canada and Ana Serrano, President of OCAD University in Toronto_