Source: European Parliament
The Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU enshrines the fundamental right to the freedom of the arts. According to its Article 13(1), ‘the arts and scientific research shall be free of constraint’[1].
The Charter also safeguards the freedom of expression (Article 11) and cultural diversity (Articles 11 and 22), which are integral to artistic freedom.
Freedom of expression, which includes freedom of artistic expression, is a core EU value and crucial for democratic societies. The Commission attaches great importance to it.
Responsibility for cultural policy and legislation lies with the Member States. Nonetheless, the Commission works closely with them to facilitate mutual learning and cooperation, share best policy and practice, and address common challenges in this field.
The Commission works with Member States in addressing threats to cultural diversity and artistic freedoms, through such initiatives as the Creative Europe programme[2], which offers funding and support to cultural institutions and initiatives that promote cultural diversity, inclusion, and freedom of expression; the EU Work Plan for Culture 2023-2026[3], which recognises artistic freedom as a fundamental part of cultural work, and the protection of artistic freedom as an essential element for strengthening the link between culture and democracy.