The first ever European Capital of Culture in a candidate country for EU membership has been selected: Novi Sad (Serbia) is to hold the title in 2021 following a recommendation from a panel of independent experts to the European Commission. The European Capitals of Culture is an initiative of the European Union. Its objectives are to safeguard and promote the diversity of cultures in Europe, highlight the common features they share and foster the contribution of culture to the long-term development of cities.