State of Artistic Freedom
The Freemuse 2025 State of Artistic Freedom report presents a comprehensive analysis of the global state of artistic expression, highlighting the increasing risks faced by artists around the world. Through 13 in-depth chapters focused on specific countries and regions, the report documents how artists are being silenced, threatened, and censored—yet continue to respond with creativity, courage, and resilience.
Key issues addressed in the report include:
- The growing use of “foreign agent” laws to suppress dissenting voices.
- Political interference in public arts institutions, limiting independent artistic programming.
- Religious and morality-based restrictions disproportionately affecting women, LGBTQ+ artists, and minority communities.
- Increased censorship of artistic expression related to the crisis in Gaza, particularly in Germany and the United States.
- The heightened vulnerability of musicians and performers in areas affected by criminal violence, especially in parts of Latin America and Africa.