Italian experts propose concrete plan to save culture after COVID-19

A group of Italian cultural experts, including Marco D'Isanto, Stefano Consiglio, Ledo Prato, and others, have issued a document urging the government to adopt a two-speed recovery plan for the cultural sector amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The immediate measures include a tax credit for those who waive refunds via vouchers (Art Bonus model), extension of public-private conventions to cultural enterprises for remote service delivery, exemption from social security contributions for 12 months, and liquidity support through banking and Mediocredito Centrale. Short-term proposals accelerate legislation from the draft Tourism and Culture Decree: approval of the Creative Enterprises Act, establishment of the Fund for Cultural and Creative Activities, tax credits, Urban Cultural Free Zones (extended to medium-sized cities), and a National Strategic Plan for Culture and Creative Enterprises. The plan also calls for reprogramming EU and ordinary funds for 2021-2027, and a two-tier fund from banking foundations to support both large and small cultural organizations, with special attention to the South. The signatories emphasize that without cultural sector support, Italy's social cohesion will be severely weakened.