Features

Cultural resilience in challenging times

Music In Africa Foundation

By Music In Africa Foundation

30 Jan 2025 - 11:50

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By Marcus Desando

The evolving political landscape and recent budget cuts to international development organisations in the Netherlands have brought significant challenges to many institutions, including the Prince Claus Fund. Starting this year, our subsidy from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been substantially reduced, affecting not only the programmes we run but also the dedicated team that makes them possible.

Prince Claus Fund director Marcus Desando.

Yet, in the face of these challenges, we are stepping into the new year with unwavering hope and determination. With the steadfast support of our community, we are confident that we can rise above these obstacles and continue to thrive. Our mission remains as urgent and vital as ever: to support socially engaged cultural practitioners and artists in regions where culture is under pressure and to create meaningful connections between changemakers worldwide and here in the Netherlands.

This year, we are excited to continue our Seed and Fellow Awards and to introduce our new Exchanges Programme – supported by the City of Amsterdam – an initiative designed to spark fresh collaborations and transformative cultural dialogues.

“With the steadfast support of our community, we are confident that we can rise above these obstacles and continue to thrive.”

To strengthen our mission, we are also embarking on an exciting new chapter. Together with Dutch Culture, the European Cultural Foundation, and Cultural Emergency Response, later this year, we will move into a shared office space within the H’ART Museum complex. This new home for international cultural cooperation is a testament to our collective vision and commitment to culture – because we recognise that in challenging times we have to come together. More news on that will follow very soon.

As we forge a sustainable path forward, we are reminded of the profound role arts and culture play in weaving the fabric of social cohesion. They empower communities, foster mutual understanding, and open doors to learning and connection across boundaries.

We invite you to join us on this journey. Be part of the Prince Claus Fund community and help us champion cultural resilience and exchange. Together, we can make a difference – discover how you can support and engage with us as we work to keep culture alive and thriving. Your involvement and support can help ensure that our community of changemakers continue to grow and flourish. Explore opportunities to donate by clicking on the button below.

Marcus Desando is the director of Prince Claus Fund. The opinions and views expressed herein are solely his own and do not reflect the position or stance of the publication.

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