Merkel sends video message to artists pledging support

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has sent a video message to artists and cultural workers, acknowledging the severe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the creative sector and pledging continued government support. In the message, Merkel emphasized that Germany is a country of culture and that the pandemic has caused a deep cut in cultural life, particularly affecting freelance artists. She stated that the federal government, together with the federal states and Culture Minister Monika Grütters, is committed to ensuring that cultural life and artists have a future. Merkel highlighted the importance of cultural events for society, noting that interaction between artists and audiences creates new perspectives on reality, helps process emotions, and fosters understanding of the past and future. She outlined existing support measures, including programs for self-employed workers to cover studio costs and rent, and easier access to basic income support. Merkel promised that the government would continue to evaluate necessary support measures in the coming months, making cultural support a top priority. The video message contrasts with Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte's earlier remark describing artists as "those who make us have fun," which was criticized as reductive. The article also notes that Germany's federal states have each set up their own support programs, while Italy's €20 million fund for the audiovisual sector excluded many visual artists.