Lithuania/ 4.2 Specific policy issues and debates  

4.2.1 Conceptual issues of policies for the arts

• state support to culture and art projects;
• state grants system to artists;
• establishing of social security programme for artists (pension plans);
• elaborating the legal status of expert commissions at the Ministry of Culture; and
• support and dissemination of significant art and culture phenomenon.

These priorities can be described as a repeat of long-term issues that were important in the periods of former governments and their programmes as well. Many of these issues are essential for artists and their organisations. Therefore, debates have been concentrated mostly on state tax policies, social security and the status of artists, as well as legal issues. Artists are of the opinion that the state cultural policy for the arts should be more focused to alleviating the situation for artists in this period of economic crisis. However, reaching an agreement and mutual understanding isn't an easy task. Culture and arts policy is still not important for politicians and remains on the periphery during electoral campaigns.

In 2008, the governmental institution - the International Cultural Programme Centre (ICP Centre) was established, which continues the activities of the liquidated organisations Cultural Contact Point Lithuania and Media Desk Lithuania (see  chapter 3.4.1).

Your Comments on this Chapter?