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Between Rhetoric and Reality: Cultural Rights, Artistic Freedom, and Democratic Resilience
Report
By Elena Polivtseva
Democracy and human rights are under growing pressure worldwide, and culture is increasingly recognised as a cornerstone of democratic resilience. But what does this mean in practice for artists and cultural organisations today? What threats do they face, how can artistic freedom be meaningfully defined and protected, and which cultural rights risk being overlooked? How can policymakers translate ambitious declarations into concrete measures for a sector already strained by both long-standing and emerging pressures? Drawing on a Europe-wide survey - with some global perspectives, network workshops, and desk research, this new PAC report examines how performing arts professionals experience artistic freedom, cultural participation, and cultural rights today, offering grounded insights and policy recommendations to inspire meaningful action in Europe and beyond.
About the Performing Arts Coalition (PAC)
The Performing Arts Coalition (PAC) is a platform for European and international performing arts networks to collaborate on advocacy for the performing arts, conducting joint actions and research, exchanging knowledge, and pooling resources. Our mission is to strengthen the role of the performing arts in society by advocating for policies that recognise their unique value. PAC was founded in 2025 by ASSITEJ - International Association of Theatre and Performing Arts for Children and Young Audiences, Circostrada - European Network for contemporary circus and outdoor arts, EDN - European Dance Development Network, EFA - European Festivals Association, and IETM - International network for contemporary performing arts. The joint membership of the networks is based in over 90 countries of the world counting over a thousand of organisations and professionals.