Sector opposes budget cuts for AgoraEU

The European film and audiovisual sector has strongly opposed proposed budget cuts for AgoraEU, the EU's upcoming programme focused on culture, media, and democracy. The Irish Presidency's negotiating proposal would reduce the programme's budget by 30%, bringing it down from the European Commission's initial proposal of 8.6 billion euros to 6 billion euros.

Organizations demand restoration of original budget

More than 50 festivals and organizations have joined calls to restore the original budget of 8.6 billion euros for the 2028-2034 period. Two open letters, signed by 16 cinema and audiovisual organizations and 51 short film festivals and industry bodies, urge EU Member States to reject the cuts and maintain the Commission’s proposed funding level.

Cuts threaten independence and diversity

The signatories warn that the proposed budget reduction would undermine independent production, cultural diversity, and cross-border cooperation. They argue that the cuts would not account for inflation or the expanded responsibilities of the AgoraEU programme, which combines elements of the Culture and MEDIA strands of Creative Europe with the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme.

Prominent film and media groups support the call

Among the 16 organizations supporting the call are major bodies such as the International Union of Cinemas (UNIC), the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF), and the Federation of European Screen Directors (FERA). Additional signatories include the International Confederation of Arthouse Cinemas (CICAE) and the Society of Audiovisual Authors (SAA).

Funding shortfall could hinder program goals

The signatories estimate that approximately 600 million euros would be needed to offset inflation affecting the existing MEDIA strand of the programme. This would leave insufficient resources to maintain the purchasing power of the budget while supporting new objectives under AgoraEU.

Short Film Coalition amplifies concerns

The Short Film Coalition, an alliance of 51 organizations including major festivals and industry platforms, has also voiced concerns about the proposed cuts. It warns that reduced funding would disproportionately affect smaller and independent organizations, worsening geographical inequalities in access to training and production opportunities.

Short films play key role in cultural development

The coalition highlights the importance of short films in talent development, film education, and promoting diverse perspectives, especially among children and young people. It argues that festivals and cross-border networks are essential for enabling filmmakers from different regions and backgrounds to participate in Europe's cultural life.

Call for stable funding framework

The signatories are urging Member States to retain the Commission's proposed 8.6 billion euro allocation and establish AgoraEU as a stable, accessible funding framework for cultural and audiovisual organizations, independent media, and civil society. The outcome of negotiations on the 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework will determine the resources available for the programme.