Last week, 18-20 July, an international jury comprising of four international experts (members of IGCAT) and representatives of the European Region of Gastronomy Platform was in Slovenia to consider the application of Slovenia for the European Region of Gastronomy title for 2021.
During the visit, the four members of the jury observed presentations from leading stakeholder organisations from Agriculture, Tourism, Culture, Foreign Affairs and Education. The jury were further able to visit and meet stakeholders from public, private, third sector and academic institutions.The aim of the visit was to assess Slovenia’s readiness to host the title in 2021 and to prepare a comprehensive report to support and nurture Slovenia’s preparations for the year and its long-term development. The jury met with the lead partners at the conclusion of this visit and shared recommendations that will help produce a successful journey to the title.
Dr Diane Dodd, President of IGCAT and expert on urban and regional cultural and arts strategies, said that the jury was impressed with the gastronomic strengths of the region and the dedication to sustainability, and the work already undertaken in the region in this regard. What also impressed them was the wide range of stakeholders taking part in the project. Exceptional is also theethos and high quality of food production in Slovenia and pride and passion that everyone they met during their visit showed in their appreciation of the land and their ability for self-sufficiency. The title will help Slovenia in its quest to become world renowned as the great green country in terms of gastronomy, sustainable tourism, food education and quality food supply.
Browse through he bid book here.
The award ceremony will take place in Brussels on 8 October 2018.
Background
The European Region of Gastronomy Award
The European Region of Gastronomy award concept was developed by IGCAT experts and has been endorsed by various European Institutions. The European Region of Gastronomy programme aims to use food and gastronomy as a means to stimulate innovation and showcase regional food cultures and identities. The European Region of Gastronomy title is awarded to regions as a stimulus to link food, hospitality, tourism, culture, arts, health and sustainability and to support economic, cultural, social and environmental development.
The European Region of Gastronomy Programme aims to:
- showcase regional gastronomy at European level
- build regional identity by giving visibility to traditional food ways
- support local economies by stimulating public and private sector funding potential
- create strong links between sustainable tourism and cultural sectors
- provide a focus on innovation, creativity and learning to support smart growth
- develop awareness on wider food issues for healthy living and sustainability
The International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT) is the operative institute that oversees the management and coordination of the Platform and gives the European Region of Gastronomy Award, following the recommendation from an international panel of judges.