Creative Pulse Survey Reveals Challenges Faced by Artists and Cultural Professionals in Europe
We are excited to announce the release of the Creative Pulse survey report, a collaborative effort between Panteia and Culture Action Europe. This comprehensive survey sheds light on the status and working conditions of artists and cultural professionals across Europe, providing invaluable insights into the challenges they face and paving the way for impactful policy actions.
Conducted from December 2023, to February 2024, the survey garnered responses from 1204 artists and cultural professionals, as well as 293 cultural organizations, institutions, and policymakers. The findings of the survey paint a stark picture of the realities experienced by those in the cultural and creative sectors (CCS).
One of the key revelations of the survey is the prevalence of poor working conditions among artists and CCS professionals, with almost half of respondents reporting experiencing such conditions. Freelancers and self-employed individuals are particularly affected, highlighting the vulnerability of workers in the sector.
Furthermore, the survey indicates that over two-thirds of respondents lack access to sufficient social protection, exacerbating the challenges faced by artists and cultural professionals. Many are forced to work multiple jobs, negatively impacting their performance in the arts sector.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also taken a toll on the income and working conditions of artists and CCS professionals, with nearly half of respondents indicating a negative impact on their income and two-thirds reporting a negative impact on their working conditions.
Gender disparities are also evident, with women more likely to be affected by poor working conditions, including insufficient social protection and lack of fair remuneration. Additionally, a significant number of respondents have felt the effects of restrictions on artistic expression, with almost half reporting increased limitations over the past five years.
Despite these challenges, there is a strong consensus among cultural organizations, institutions, and policymakers surveyed that the EU needs to adopt legislation to address the working conditions of artists and creative professionals. Almost 90% of respondents believe that such legislation would improve conditions in the sector.
The release of the Creative Pulse survey report represents a crucial step towards advocating for meaningful change in the cultural and creative sectors. Panteia and Culture Action Europe are committed to leveraging the insights provided by the survey to drive policy change and improve the lives of artists and cultural professionals across Europe.
We invite you to explore the full report and join us in our efforts to make a meaningful impact on policy and practice in the cultural and creative sectors. Together, we can create a brighter future for all those who contribute to Europe's vibrant cultural landscape.
Expert quote from Martin Clarke:
‘As a former musician, this issue really resonates with me at a personal level. I believe that it is fundamental that policy makers have up-to-date and relevant data to have the best evidence base to understand and address the many issues that we know exist in the sector and that are confirmed by this report. It is clear that artists and professionals in the sector have not been heard for a long time, so we are happy to have provided them with a voice by carrying out this survey and subsequent report.’
Please find the link to download the report here
