Statement by the European Association of Independent Performing Arts (EAIPA)
The European Association of Independent Performing Arts (EAIPA) expresses deep concern on recent developments affecting the integrity and security of the artistic sector in Lithuania.
The Minister for Arts and Culture bears significant responsibility in safeguarding artistic freedom, ensuring economic and structural stability, and protecting the sector’s independence from political interference—all in alignment with core European values. It is therefore essential that individuals appointed to cultural decision-making positions are committed to upholding these principles and are prepared to defend the arts and culture sector against any form of political or ideological attack.
We strongly support the petition put forward by representatives of the Lithuanian cultural community and echo their call to the Lithuanian government: do not entrust the Ministry for Arts and Culture to a political party lacking both expertise in the field and a commitment to democratic, pluralistic, and forward-looking societal values.
As a European network with members in 19 countries, EAIPA takes a strong interest in political developments that impact the vibrancy and independence of the arts and culture sector. We are closely monitoring the situation in Lithuania and will continue to raise our voice wherever artistic freedom and democratic values are at risk.
We, the undersigned representatives and members of the Lithuanian cultural community – artists, curators, writers, designers, architects, musicians, dancers, directors, actors, critics, museum and library professionals, scholars, producers, NGO and festival leaders, cultural workers, and citizens – express our deep concern about the Government’s decision to trade the Ministry of Culture as a bargaining chip in political negotiations with the party “Nemuno aušra.” This party, characterized by populist, antisemitic, and pro-Russian rhetoric, has devoted completely negligible attention to culture in its program, has never demonstrated the necessary competence to govern this crucial sphere of state life, nor shown any commitment to protecting culture and its autonomy.
The Ministry of Culture is not a token to be exchanged in the pursuit of political gain. Culture is the living memory of a nation, the foundation of its democratic values, and the bridge connecting its past to its future. It is a key condition for society’s resilience against propaganda and the fight against disinformation. Entrusting the governance of this ministry to a political force that openly denies, distorts, or diminishes these values is dangerous not only for the cultural sector but also for the integrity of our society.
We condemn any actions that turn the cultural field into an instrument of political deals. We reject the transfer of our collective heritage into the hands of those hostile to diversity, pluralism, and European democratic traditions.
We call on the President of the Republic of Lithuania not to approve the candidates proposed by “Nemuno aušra.” We call on the Social Democratic Party, which won the parliamentary elections, to immediately withdraw from this agreement and ensure that the Ministry of Culture remains in responsible hands, led by individuals whose competence, cultural leadership, strategic approach to cultural policy, and integrity are proven.
We reaffirm that cultural policy must serve the public good and the inclusive development of society, not narrow political interests.
We demand transparent consultations with cultural organizations and civil society regarding the governance of culture and the future direction of cultural policy.
We affirm that the cultural community will not remain silent when democratic principles are violated and when our cultural institutions are endangered. Culture is not a commodity. Culture is the core of a free and democratic nation.
Do you want to show support and take action? You can download the „Culture at Risk“ Information kit provided by the Lithuanian Sector here!