Artistic Freedom Initiative

AFI

Led by immigration and human rights attorneys, Artistic Freedom Initiative (AFI) provides pro bono immigration representation and resettlement assistance for international artists at risk.

Lobbying Activity

Meeting with Clint Tanti (Cabinet of Commissioner Glenn Micallef), Desislava Dimitrova (Cabinet of Commissioner Glenn Micallef)

25 Jun 2025 · Introductory meeting

Response to A Culture Compass for Europe

13 May 2025

Artistic freedom is a cornerstone of democratic societies and a vital component of a resilient and inclusive cultural landscape. The European Commissions proposed Culture Compass represents a crucial opportunity to embed the right to artistic freedom within EU cultural policy frameworks. Artistic Freedom Initiative (AFI) welcomes this initiative and urges the Commission to promote robust legal and institutional safeguards that protect the autonomy of artists and cultural professionals across the Member States. In light of rising threats to artistic freedom across Europe, the Culture Compass should be seen not only as a tool for fostering cultural development, but also as a strategic framework that reinforces freedom of expression as a common European valuethrough coordinated guidance, policy alignment, and sustained political commitment. Please find attached findings and recommendations Artistic Freedom Initiative encourages the Commission to integrate in the Cultural Compass.
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