ASEF LinkUp Program 2026: A Deep Dive into Cultural Cooperation

The Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) is offering a unique opportunity for arts professionals and government representatives to engage in cultural diplomacy through its ASEF LinkUp Program 2026. This fully funded initiative, taking place in Ljubljana, Slovenia, focuses on critical themes such as sustainability, ethics, and equity within international cultural relations. The program aims to foster collaboration and innovative thinking among participants from Asia and Europe, strengthening the bonds between these two continents through the arts.

Key Takeaways

• The ASEF LinkUp Program 2026 in Ljubljana, Slovenia, offers a fully funded opportunity for arts professionals to focus on sustainability, ethics, and equity in cultural relations.
• The program consists of three phases: online sessions, an in-person lab in Ljubljana, and a final phase involving a fieldbook and community engagement.
• Participants receive financial support covering airfare, visa fees, accommodation, and a daily allowance, with no registration fee required.
• Applicants must be citizens of an ASEM partner country, at least 21 years old, with a minimum of five years of international professional experience in the arts or cultural sector and strong English skills.

Program Overview and Objectives

The ASEF LinkUp Program 2026 is designed to connect approximately 20 participants from ASEM partner countries. The core objective is to explore new ways for international cultural cooperation to thrive. This year’s edition, hosted by the ASEF in partnership with the Motovila Institute and Slovenian cultural organizations, will specifically address sustainability, ethics, and equity in the context of international cultural relations. Participants will have the chance to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and develop practical approaches to cultural exchange.

Financial Support and Benefits

Selected participants will benefit from a comprehensive funding package that covers essential expenses. This includes return economy airfare, visa fees, and six nights of accommodation. Additionally, participants will receive a daily per diem allowance and refreshments, including lunch, during the in-person sessions. There is no registration or participation fee, making the program accessible to a wide range of qualified individuals.

Program Structure: A Three-Phase Approach

The ASEF LinkUp Program 2026 is structured into three distinct phases to ensure a comprehensive and engaging experience.

Phase 1: Online Sessions

This initial phase involves five online sessions that will take place from October 15 to November 12, 2026. These virtual meetings will serve as an introduction to the program’s themes and allow participants to begin connecting with each other and the facilitators. This phase helps set the stage for the in-person component.

Phase 2: In-Person Lab in Ljubljana

The core of the program is the in-person lab, scheduled from November 23 to 27, 2026, in Ljubljana, Slovenia. During this intensive period, participants will engage in a variety of activities designed to foster deep learning and collaboration. These activities include workshops, interactive discussions, site visits to relevant cultural institutions, and group project work. This phase is crucial for networking and developing concrete ideas.

Phase 3: Fieldbook and Community Engagement

Following the in-person lab, participants will move into Phase 3, which runs from December 2026 to February 2027. In this final phase, participants will collaborate on creating the ASEF LinkUp Fieldbook, a publication that will document the insights and outcomes of the program. They will also continue to engage with the ASEF cultural diplomacy network, extending the program’s impact beyond its duration.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

To be considered for the ASEF LinkUp Program 2026, applicants must meet specific criteria. They must be citizens of an ASEM partner country and be at least 21 years old. A significant requirement is working within the arts or cultural sector, with a minimum of five years of international professional experience. This includes roles such as cultural practitioners, arts managers, curators, researchers, academics, museum professionals, or representatives of cultural organizations and networks. Proficiency in English is essential for effective communication, and a commitment to participating in all program phases is mandatory.

Who Should Apply?

This program is particularly well-suited for individuals who are actively involved in the cultural landscape and are looking to expand their international reach and understanding. Ideal candidates include cultural practitioners, arts managers, museum professionals, curators, researchers, academics, and leaders of cultural organizations and arts networks. Heritage professionals and creative sector leaders who are keen on cross-continental collaboration and cultural diplomacy will also find this program highly beneficial.

How to Apply

Interested individuals can submit their applications through the official ASEF website. The application process is entirely online, and there are no fees associated with registration or participation. The deadline for applications is August 27, 2026.

Apply now for the ASEF LinkUp Program 2026: APPLY NOW FOR THE ASIALINKUP 2026

Conclusion

The ASEF LinkUp Program 2026 presents a valuable opportunity for professionals in the arts and cultural sectors to deepen their understanding of international cultural relations, sustainability, ethics, and equity. Through a blend of online engagement and an intensive in-person experience in Slovenia, participants will gain new perspectives, forge lasting connections, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue of cultural cooperation between Asia and Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions