Italy's New Decree Charging Fees for Cultural Image Use Sparks Outcry

A new Italian ministerial decree (DM 11 April 2023, n. 161) introduces fees for the reproduction and use of state-owned cultural heritage images, even for scientific research and editorial publications. The decree has been fiercely criticized by the Federation of University Archaeological Councils, the National University Consultancy for Art History (CUNSTA), and the Italian Society of Art Criticism History (SISCA). They argue it violates Article 9 of the Italian Constitution, freedom of research, and economic initiative in the cultural sector. The decree replaces the 1994 DM that granted free reproduction for periodicals and monographs under 70 euros and 2,000 copies, and overturns the Digital Library's 2022 guidelines that had established free use for all editorial products after a year of public consultation. Critics denounce the 'myopic policy' of monetizing cultural heritage, comparing it to 'squeezing a lemon' to reduce public deficit. They warn that the complex fee calculation system will burden users and officials, and that the decree equates scientific publishing with commercial use, enabling 'preventive censorship.' The signatories demand immediate withdrawal of the decree and adoption of Open Access licenses, calling for a meeting between MIUR and MiC.