EU Culture Strategy: Artists Need Independence Not Just Support (euobserver.com)

• EU culture strategy highlights sector diversity and economic weight
• Critique of using culture for orchestrated image promotion
• Call for artist independence over state-directed branding

"The article discusses the European Union's new international culture strategy, emphasizing the outstanding diversity and economic significance of Europe's creative sector. It argues that while support is welcome, the sector should not be instrumentalized to promote an orchestrated image of Europe. Artists need independence to thrive. The strategy should focus on genuine cultural exchange rather than top-down branding."