Venice Biennale jury bars awards to artists from nations facing ICC charges

The Venice Biennale jury has declared it will not award prizes to artists from countries whose leaders face International Criminal Court (ICC) charges for crimes against humanity. The five-member jury, appointed by late curator Koyo Kouoh, stated its commitment to human rights in continuity with her vision. While the statement did not name specific nations, Venice mayor Luigi Brugnaro confirmed the jury informed his council that artists from governments under ICC investigation are ineligible. The ICC has issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin over alleged war crimes in Ukraine and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over alleged war crimes in Gaza. The jury selects Golden and Silver Lion winners among 110 artists at the biennale opening May 9. The decision follows criticism of the biennale for allowing Russia to reopen its pavilion, which runs until November 22. The European Commission has threatened to terminate or suspend its €2 million grant due to Russia's participation, giving the biennale 30 days to respond. Italy's far-right government opposed the reintroduction, with Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli stating the decision was made independently by the Biennale Foundation. Ukraine had urged organizers to exclude Russia, arguing the biennale must not whitewash war crimes. Russia was absent from the 2022 and 2024 editions after its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.