IETM Advocacy School
Advocacy has always been part of the work of the performing arts sector. But in a rapidly changing political environment, marked by pressure on public funding, growing polarisation and shifting narratives around culture — advocating effectively for performing arts requires increasingly strategic choices, compelling arguments and strong alliances.
In April 2026, we conducted a membership-wide survey to help us understand our members current experience and challenges in advocacy, identify shared priorities across the network, and design a programme that is relevant, practical and internationally applicable.
This autumn, IETM is launching an online Advocacy School for experienced advocates from the IETM membership. This first edition will comprise of 5 sessions held from mid November to the beginning of December 2026. The School will offer a practical and collaborative space where participants will develop and strengthen their very own advocacy strategies, test approaches and learn from peers and experts.
Start with us on 14 October
Before applications open, we invite IETM members to an introductory online session on Wednesday, 14 October at 14.00 - 15:30 CEST (calculate your timezone)
During this session, we will:
- introduce the Advocacy School, its programme and learning approach;
- explain who the School is designed for and how the application process will work;
- hear from members and partners about advocacy strategies and actions that have made a difference;
- leave space for questions and open discussion.
Applications for the Advocacy School will open after the session, on 14 October. This first edition will accommodate a total of 25 participants.
If you are considering applying, this is the best opportunity to understand what to expect and start thinking about the concrete advocacy challenge you would like to bring to the School. In the meantime, you can find all relevant information on the FAQs page here.
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