FilmEU Calls for Greater European Investment in Culture and Artistic Research

FilmEU – The European University Alliance, of which Lusófona University is a member, has joined more than 1,200 European institutions in signing an open letter calling for increased European Union investment in the arts, culture and artistic research.

The initiative was presented during the Society for Artistic Research (SAR) International Forum on Artistic Research, held at the University of Galway in Ireland, bringing together more than 300 international representatives from the academic and cultural sectors.

The open letter, promoted as part of the #NamePlaceFund campaign, was delivered at the start of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union. It calls for the arts, culture and the Cultural and Creative Sectors and Industries to play a central role in negotiations on the European Union’s next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF).

The main proposals include:

• explicit recognition of culture within European research and innovation policies;
• placing the arts and culture at the heart of Europe’s strategy for research, innovation and competitiveness;
• establishing dedicated and sustainable funding for the cultural sector over the next seven years.

The signatories argue that artistic research is a key driver of innovation, contributing to sustainable development, social cohesion, community resilience and Europe’s competitiveness.

According to FilmEU, these priorities reflect the Alliance’s mission to promote excellence in film, media and creative industries education through international collaboration, artistic research and innovation.

As a European University Alliance specialising in the audiovisual sector, FilmEU believes that investment in artistic research strengthens higher education, equips professionals in the creative industries and generates a positive impact on society.

The open letter also highlights that the new Multiannual Financial Framework represents an opportunity to strengthen the role of the arts in society, foster cultural innovation, support the growth of the cultural and creative industries, and preserve Europe’s cultural and linguistic diversity.

By supporting this initiative, FilmEU reaffirms its commitment to a Europe where culture, creativity and artistic research play a vital role in developing solutions to the social, technological and environmental challenges of the future.

The academic community, researchers, students and partners are invited to read the open letter and follow the ongoing discussion on the future of artistic research and cultural innovation in Europe.

Read the full letter here