Catherine Pégard faces budget scrutiny

Catherine Pégard, France's Minister of Culture, appeared before the cultural affairs committee of the National Assembly on October 22, 2026, to defend the proposed 2027 budget. The budget includes 3.68 billion euros in engagement authorizations and 3.64 billion euros in payment credits, both lower than the previous year.

Budget defended as forward-looking

Pégard defended the budget, arguing that it was necessary to plan for the future and noted a 23% increase in budget credits since 2017. She emphasized that her policy aimed to make culture accessible to the widest possible audience while continuing major investment projects.

Varied opinions on budget assessments

The rapporteurs for opinion gave mixed assessments. Jérémie Patrier-Leitus praised the maintenance of essential funds but warned that cultural needs would exceed 5.5 billion euros over the next decade. Meanwhile, the Socialists and Affiliated group criticized the budget cuts and staff reductions for heritage institutions.

Concerns over reduced funding for key projects

Erwan Balanant expressed concerns over reduced funding for the Cultural Mission and a cut in the budget for cultural and artistic education. He noted a reduction in the collective pass Culture program and called for an additional 60 million euros to improve the situation. Philippe Ballard also criticized the government for not proposing sufficient savings.

AI regulation and freedom of creation discussed

Pégard was questioned about AI regulation, freedom of creation, and censorship. She mentioned efforts to consult platforms and creators on AI but noted that no agreement had been reached. She acknowledged ongoing cultural debates in France but stressed the need to operate within legal boundaries.

Tensions over cultural policies and funding

Deputy Aymeric Caron raised concerns about the removal of a blank check for Palestine from a television program, which led to tensions and session suspensions. Several groups highlighted the reduced funding for the National Book Center and discussed potential solutions, including a proposed tax on online book sales.

Industry concentration and editorial diversity addressed

La France insoumise raised concerns about the publishing industry's concentration and the situation of the distributor Makassar. Pégard acknowledged the need to monitor industry concentration and editorial changes but did not respond to all points. She emphasized the importance of editorial diversity in her cultural policies.