NAPK: ‘Minister, take more time to reform the cultural sector.’

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Amsterdam, 26 October 2026 – The Dutch Association for the Performing Arts (NAPK) argues that the reform of the cultural funding system proposed by Minister Letschert, due to be introduced from 2029, is being implemented too quickly and without sufficient justification. The trade association fears that this far-reaching systemic change poses significant risks to institutions, creators and the public.

The NAPK endorses the objectives of improving access to culture, reducing the regulatory burden and creating a future-proof system, but believes that it must first be made clear exactly which problem is being addressed and what the consequences of the proposed changes will be.

The organisation advocates retaining the current basic cultural infrastructure (BIS) during the forthcoming funding period, combined with targeted improvements such as better regional distribution, a reduction in administrative burdens and longer funding periods. In the meantime, according to the NAPK, careful work can be carried out on impact assessments, scenarios and pilot schemes for any further reforms.

The NAPK calls on the Minister not to take any irreversible steps until the feasibility, financial implications and effects on the cultural sector have been properly investigated and calls for administrative consultations prior to the legislative consultation on Culture on 9 November.

The whole The urgent letter is available on our website download.