Tandem Shaml supports experimental and lasting collaborations between change makers from the Arab region and Europe. For one year cultural actors work in tandems and as a group: being part of a larger network and sharing good practice. Joint projects confront global challenges like migration and support local community development by linking local people, places, art forms and ideas.

In the summer of 2012, the Tandem Shaml pilot programme for cultural exchange between Europe and the Arab-Mediterranean region was launched. This programme round included 12 participants from Egypt, Syria, Tunisia, Germany, Spain, Latvia, Turkey and the Netherlands and provided the opportunity for cultural professionals’ long-term cooperation and knowledge development. It was also a unique opportunity to get a real insight into the rapidly-changing Arab cultural scene now emerging.