Supporting the development of the music sector and its stakeholders in both Europe and the Arab World and expanding opportunities for young talent was the overall theme at the Euro-Arab Youth-Music Summit 2025,  a pioneering event focused on fostering connections between Europe and the Arab World through music that took place in Brussels at the end of January hosted by Jeunesses Musicales International (JMI).

AEC Executive Director Finn Schumacker participated in the summit together with around 30 other stakeholders, including young musicians, educators, and music industry professionals, to explore key issues impacting the development of youth and the music sector globally. The summit aimed to empower youth by using music as a tool for local, regional, and international integration.

Structured around round-table discussions, the event offered a platform for participants to share insights, present best practices, and pitch new ideas around three focus areas: Formal Music Education, Nonformal Music Ecosystem, and Music Industry Development and Support.

The summit culminated in discussions about a set of recommendations to guide future development in the music sector and youth integration, which will be shared with key stakeholders across both regions. AEC was happy to participate, expand its network, and share information about Higher Music Education, in particular especially about the European frameworks that facilitate mobility, recognition of learning outcomes and quality enhancement.