Halaqat
About Halaqat
Halaqat, which is the Arabic term for ‘multiple links and circles’, provides a space for cultural actors from Arab and European countries to artistically reflect on topics of care, exploring them through a gender lens.
Launched in 2021, the project fosters exchange between Europe and Arab countries and is, in its second phase from 2024 to 2027, supporting the cultural scenes especially in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Morocco.
Exploring the Notion of Care
In this phase Halaqat explores the notion of ‘care’, a concept which is deeply related to gender topics in both regions and tackles the question of gender equity and sensitivity and the power dynamics in an inclusive and intersectional way.Engaging Questions
The project raises questions to engage in a conversation with artists, cultural practitioners and the audience about care both on a structural and artistic level:- How can different notions of care be addressed and expressed?
- How do dominant narratives influence which bodies are cared about (and which not) and how can these narratives be challenged?
- How can we strengthen practices of care in the cultural scene and in the society at large?
Exploring the Notion of Care
In this phase Halaqat explores the notion of ‘care’, a concept which is deeply related to gender topics in both regions and tackles the question of gender equity and sensitivity and the power dynamics in an inclusive and intersectional way.
What Has Halaqat Achieved So Far?
The project started in 2021 and gathered over 100 artists, partners and experts from the Arab countries and Europe, first in Brussels and later in Egypt, Jordan and Morocco.
Halaqat Publication – Lessons for the Future
The Halaqat publication has been published in November 2022 by the editing house Überknackig. Get to know more about the project and read the “Lessons for the Future” for improved cultural relationships between Europe and the Arab world.
Mobility, financing, crisis as a permanent state, fair cultural relations, and exchange of expertise — these five themes marked the culmination of the “Lessons for the Future” publication, developed collaboratively by Halaqat experts in Brussels in May 2022. Together, these lessons outline a path toward strengthening cultural relations between Europe and the Arab world.
Partnership and Funding
Halaqat, launched in 2021, fosters cultural exchange between Europe and the Arab region. Initially co-financed by the European Union (under the designation: EU-LAS CULTURE), Goethe-Institut and Bozar, it was implemented by the Goethe-Institut in collaboration with Bozar until 2023, continuing with its own funds thereafter.
The new iteration of Halaqat (2024-2027) is funded by the European Union and implemented by the Goethe-Institut. It will run for 32 months until spring 2027 with activities in Belgium, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, and Morocco.
