45 Artists and Cultural Figures Urge EU to Prioritize Culture in Recovery Fund

A group of 45 artists and cultural figures from across Europe, including Marina Abramović, Daniel Buren, Joan Fontcuberta, Björk, and Paul Dujardin, have issued an open letter to EU leaders during the Brussels negotiations on the Recovery Fund and multiannual budget. The letter warns that the cultural sector is in crisis due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with theaters, cinemas, museums, and other venues closed since the outbreak. Citing a study by KEA European Affairs for the Council of Europe, the letter notes that the cultural sector lost up to 80% of its turnover in the second quarter of 2020. Germany alone lost approximately €21.7 billion, 12.7% of its annual revenue. The global film industry faces losses of about €7 billion, according to a UNESCO analysis. The signatories argue that despite EU leaders' statements of support, the proposed recovery plan and budget do not adequately address the needs of cultural and creative sectors. They call for financial resources sufficient to allow art, culture, and creative enterprises to survive and thrive. The letter emphasizes that culture has been a source of comfort during the pandemic, with music, films, books, and art providing solace. It concludes that investing in culture is an opportunity for the EU to demonstrate its values and secure a creative future for the next generation.