A forum focused on real needs and practical solutions
The international expert forum “Culture and Creative Sectors’ Future in the Multiannual Financial Framework 2028–2034” was hosted by the International Cultural Centre in Kraków. The event brought together leading policymakers and specialists, including Poland’s Minister of Culture and National Heritage Marta Cienkowska, and representatives from the European Commission and the European Parliament.
One of the forum’s highlights was the first panel, “The Challenges and Needs of Artists”, chaired by Professor Dorota Ilczuk, Head of the Creative Economy Research Center. The panel took place in a room with a view of Kraków’s Main Market Square, which provided an inspiring setting for a broad conversation about the future of artistic work in Europe.
Professor Dorota Ilczuk with her team from the Creative Economy Research Center
The five-hour discussion was lively and engaging, and participants expressed hope that artists’ working conditions will gradually improve in the coming years. The sense of optimism was strengthened by the fact that the panel’s recommendations were addressed directly to the team at the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage responsible for EU cultural funds. The CERC team especially appreciated the initiative and openness of Director Monika Bromska and her colleagues, whose involvement helped create a productive, collaborative atmosphere. The panel brought together top Polish and European experts, and Professor Ilczuk was joined by a talented young team from CERC.
Key topics: Fair practice, future models, and human-centered technologies
The discussion centered on real challenges artists face today and possible solutions for the future. Key topics included fair pay, fair working conditions, the potential introduction of the Irish Basic Income for Artists model, and ways to keep generative AI technologies human-centered. Participants also explored what the everyday working life of an artist might look like in 2035 if the current conditions remain unchanged.
Group discussion
Group discussion
These ideas will help shape a set of recommendations, which should be ready by mid-January. Professor Ilczuk is working on the final version of the document with an experienced team. The group includes well-known Polish writer and poet Jacek Dehnel and Maciej Janik from the Society of Authors ZAiKS, Poland’s largest collective copyright management organization.