Arts Council England faces backlash over updated guidelines on political expression for funded organizations

Arts Council England updated its Relationship Framework policies on January 25, adding a new section titled 'Considering reputational risk' that outlines steps for National Portfolio Organizations to manage their public image. The guidance defines reputational risk as any activity or behavior that could breach funding agreements or generate negative reactions from press, public, partners, or stakeholders. This includes programming, events, statements about political debates, management decisions, and partnerships perceived as conflicting with public funding purposes. Arts Professional reported the changes on Twitter, drawing millions of views and widespread criticism. The Arts Council responded with a website statement clarifying its position on freedom of expression, asserting it does not seek to restrict artists or organizations from creating art or speaking out. However, the guidance requires organizations to consider and mitigate risks when planning potentially controversial activities involving themselves or associated individuals. Neither the updated guidelines nor the Arts Council's statement specifically mention Palestine, Israel, or war. The framework applies to organizations funded for the 2023–2026 period.