"Let us together continue to build a cultural and creative sector that continues to connect and innovate". With this call, president Kristel Baele opens the online annual report 2024 of the Council for Culture, published today.
In her foreword, she reflects on the challenges faced by institutions, artists, creators and audiences over the past year. For instance, she mentions rising costs, inflation and the looming increase in the VAT rate for arts and culture. "Nevertheless, we saw how the sector kept moving, buoyed by joint efforts, great adaptability and the shared belief that arts and culture are invaluable. This motivates us to remain committed to a resilient sector also in 2025."
The annual report also looks back at the 2024 opinions "With our opinions, we strengthen a rich cultural life and a diverse media offer. We do this independently and together with the sector.", writes the council.
Early 2024 ordering advice was published 'Access to culture', with contributions from hundreds of stakeholders in the field. Shortly afterwards, a advice on the handling of colonial archives and documentary collections. In the summer, the council issued opinions on grant applications for the Basic cultural infrastructure (BIS) 2025-2028. 115 institutions received a positive opinion, which was adopted by Minister Eppo Bruins (OCW).
In the autumn, the council visited Tilburg and Breda. And throughout the year, several discussions took place with both youth platforms, a valuable source of inspiration for the council's work.
In the work programme for 2025, the council focuses on governance, financial stability, artistic and journalistic freedom and artificial intelligence, among others. "We will continue to listen to makers from all regions and provide advice to government and parliament from our independent role.", said Kristel Baele on this.
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