The State of Artistic Freedom 2022

Presented by by:Larm

Earlier this month, Freemuse released the annual report The State of Artistic Freedom. The landscape of oppression and violations of artistic freedom is illustrated in the report, and in 2021 more than 1,200 violations of artistic freedom were documented. Among them is a record number of 39 artists who were reportedly killed that year. More than 500 artists faced legal consequences for challenging the authorities, public figures, and religious and traditional values. And again, musicians and music were the art form most exposed to violations.

The COVID-19 pandemic entering its second year added to this grim landscape with continuing loss of lives, economies battered, and public spaces shut down. Restrictions imposed at the start of the virus outbreak in 2020 continued to negatively impact public discussion and scrutiny of government decisions in 2021. Artists and cultural workers were in the midst of this turmoil, chronicling events around them, taking part in protests, and all too often becoming targets of repression.

Freemuse is an independent international non-governmental organisation advocating for freedom of artistic expression and cultural diversity. Sverre Pedersen is chair of the Executive Committee of Freemuse. In this talk Sverre will give you an overview of the state of the artistic freedom today and maybe share some of Freemuse’s recommendations to improve the situation.

In conversation with Aslaug Olette Klausen (Kontekst, Klassekampen)

"Imagine what the world would miss if there were no artists, actors, musicians, or painters, no comedy, cartoons, or satire. How can we shape new narratives, explore new ideas and discover new perspectives if those who dare to express themselves differently are suppressed?” Irene Khan, UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the rights to freedom of opinion and expression.