The Dutch organisation has made the call prior to the municipal elections which are set to take place on March 18 next year.
“From a broad coalition, we jointly call on local parties to recognise the importance of culture in their election programmes,” read a Kunsten ’92 statement.
“Culture is indispensable for our municipalities.
“After all, it makes cities and villages more attractive, strengthens social cohesion and contributes to mental health.
“In addition, the cultural and creative sector makes a significant contribution to the economy and employment.
“We encourage local political parties to include a number of concrete ambitions in their election programs.”
Kunsten ‘92’s policy recommendations include the maintaining of cultural offerings in municipalities by ensuring that cultural institutions, festivals, and heritage remain accessible to everyone.
Furthermore, the group wants to stimulate cultural education and participation, offer fair working conditions for artists and cultural workers, integrate culture into healthcare, welfare and urban development, and also to make culture and heritage a spearhead of economic policy.
In addition to its political plea, Kunsten ’92 is focusing on making itself and the cultural sector more sustainable.
As a result, it is launching the Fair Practice Lab in collaboration with Green Events.
It will run sessions that encourage ideas on how to positively impact the industry, with the results set to form input for the upcoming Sustainability Ladder Culture.