Cultural sector concerned about dismantling of social system for artists
Artists from all corners of the cultural sector are concerned about the social system for the arts in Belgium. In a press release, authors, technicians and creators expressed their apprehensions about the formation of Belgium's government and what it will mean for funding in the cultural sector.
“The positions of the political parties sitting around the table to form a government make artists very concerned,” the press release says. “Culture is still undervalued, we need a federal government that supports artists.”
Trade unions, federations and associations of authors, artists and technicians have pointed out stances that certain individuals have publicly taken in the creation of the new federal government agreement. This pertains to the social protection of those working in the arts.
"We do not want to dismantle the social system for artists. Our sector has already undergone a major reform"
The press release, issued by 11 organisations and approximately 75 artists, including actors Marijke Pinoy, Ben Segers and Lien Van De Kelder, says: "The previous federal government introduced sound social protection for artists. We do not want to dismantle the social system for artists.
"Our sector has already undergone a major reform, the WITA reform, in which the social security rules are clearly laid down for all actors involved. As trade unions and representatives of the artists, we demand that the agreed principles be continued."
The signatories want this social security to be maintained and for reinforcement within social security to guarantee benefits for artists.
"The political signals for the establishment of a system outside social security are not only unacceptable but also undermine the framework of agreements that we have been using since 2023," they say. "As representatives of the artists, we are open to dialogue on new improvements, provided that they respect the above principles."
© PHOTO BELGIAN FREELANCE
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