Many of Europe's coastal towns and cities face significant challenges, including de-industrialisation, economic decline, widening inequalities, over-reliance on tourism, and social stigma leading to isolation. These pressures can erode community identity and disconnect residents from local decision-making.
The University of Portsmouth, through its Centre for Port Cities and Maritime Cultures and the Centre for European and International Studies Research, is coordinating a network funded by a COST Action bid of €400,000 over four years (anticipated 2027-31). The initiative seeks to bring together researchers, artists, curators, filmmakers, educators, policymakers, and community groups across Europe to co-create and reimagine engagement with coastal spaces, fostering stronger connections and a positive civic identity.
The project is structured around four working groups: WG1: Screen Representations of Coastal Communities, exploring media portrayals and self-representation; WG2: Culture, Tourism, Coastal Communities and the Environment, focusing on sustainable futures; WG3: Co-producing and Accessing Culture, examining heritage and empowerment; and WG4: Civic (Dis)connection and Reconnection, addressing inclusion and digital citizenship, particularly for older adults, migrants, and refugees.
Individuals under 40 working in research, culture, heritage, education, media, policy, or community organising in the UK and across Europe are invited to participate. Membership provides access to working group meetings, short-term scientific missions, workshops, conferences, and training schools. The deadline for expressions of interest is 19th October 2026.
This initiative is part of a COST Action, a framework funding interdisciplinary research networks. COST Actions are open, allowing individuals to join even after the network is running. Further information is available on the official COST website.
