Abstract

The paper supports the idea that the southern shore of the Mediterranean - crossroad of the Arab-Islamic, African and Euro-Asiatic worlds - should be considered as a land of crisis but also of opportunities, for the paramount role plaid by the historical superposition of so many different cultures. Cultural diversity can divide, but can also be seen under the positive light of a Mediterranean cultural diplomacy aimed at implementing a shared strategy of sustainable development, in the line of the UN 2030 agenda, and of COP 21. Cultural policies, often identified only with heritage safeguard, can also be a factor of innovation, by fostering artistic as well as technical creativity, and by implementing capacity building and research programs. Thus the Italian cultural action in the Mediterranean should pursue: A) a comprehensive approach, including the intangible heritage and scientific culture; B) the promotion of partnership with the involved countries, rather than the organization of events; C) women and the younger generations as a special target.