Ultimate Cookbook: The Artistic Freedom Regulatory Framework in the EU
The European Festivals Association (EFA) and Pearle* have released their latest publication in their “Ultimate Cookbook” series as part of the Creative Europe Share the Alliance project, which aim to equip cultural professionals with the tools to identify risks, understand the legal landscape, and take action in diverse areas.
The latest cookbook explores the Artistic Freedom Regulatory Framework in the EU, delving into what artistic freedom means within the context of ongoing threats and challenges to artistic freedom, with a particular focus on the live performance sector.
The publication concludes with 7 tips for cultural professionals:
- Keep written records of interference, risk assessments, legal threats, and decisions affecting programmes.
- Track signals to watch: vague “values” criteria, repeat rejections without reasons, “pending visa” defaults, and shrinking international line-ups.
- Communicate with audiences as partners: explain public interest, provide context materials, and invite dialogue rather than retreat.
- Request transparent grant procedures and written justifications for funding decisions.
- Build a copyright playbook: know quotation, parody, and pastiche exceptions; seek legal review before releasing content.
- Adopt an artistic freedom policy and a crisis-response plan for backlash and disinformation (Q&A notes, contextualisation, spokespersons).
- Balance security with openness: proportionate measures, trained staff, liaison with police, and clear public messaging.