Independent
Cultural
Organisations
Network

A platform for
dialogue and collaboration

ICON× brings together independent cultural organisations that actively operate within their local contexts, reflect the cultural, social, and political realities of their countries, and address the pressing issues shaping them.

By bringing forward civil society voices, the network fosters cultural development, strengthens democratic narratives, and advances human rights advocacy towards lasting societal change.

History

Established in 2020, ICON× operates across the Eastern Neighbourhood Countries (ENC) in collaboration with the support of the Danish Cultural Institute. Over more than five years, the network has implemented numerous projects — both individual and collaborative — across Armenia, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine, while working with partners from Azerbaijan and supporting Belarusian culture in exile.

Throughout this time, the network has combined cultural work with a human rights-based approach, contributing to democratic processes, addressing the consequences of war, displacement, political repressions, climate change and other challenges deepening inequalities, while advocating for gender equality and environmental sustainability.

The × symbol

The "×" in ICON× reflects two things simultaneously: the connection with the Danish Cultural Institute, and a multiplying effect — signalling the network's continuous expansion and openness to new collaborations and partners.

Structure

ICON× functions through a decentralised structure, enabling cooperation across diverse local contexts while remaining attentive to regional specificities. Its model enables flexible, context-driven implementation while building long-term partnerships.

The network acts as a platform for advocacy, capacity development, and shared governance, promoting participatory approaches, resource-sharing, and the inclusion of communities and cultural actors in decision-making processes.

Support

The network has been supported by the Danish Cultural Institute through the New Democracy Fund, building a horizontal and trust-based collaboration between organisations from the region and Denmark.

Membership

Membership to ICON× remains open to those who share the network's vision for democratic, inclusive, and interconnected cultural futures.