70-Years-On Agenda Update 2024
The European Festivals Association marked 72 years of existence in 2024 with the second update to the 70-Years-On Agenda, a framework designed to ensure that initiatives remain relevant and adaptable to the times.
Each year, the 70-Years-On Thinking Group distils key shifts and frames them as points for reflection and action, evolving to mirror the “state of festivals” across Europe. In 2024, themes such as artistic freedom, financial viability, environmental sustainability, inclusivity, and the transformative potential of festivals were at the heart of several discussions held both in-person – during the Arts Festivals Summit 2024 on Usedom - and online – in the 70-Years-On Conversations.
1. Artistic Independence and Freedom
The Agenda Update 2024 underscores the importance of protecting artistic programming and leadership from external interference, including political, financial, or societal pressures. It reaffirms the necessity of maintaining creative autonomy and safeguarding festivals as spaces for free expression and critical discourse.
2. Economic Sustainability
The update addresses increasing financial pressures faced by festivals across Europe, including reduced public funding and shifting sponsorship dynamics. It highlights strategies for diversifying income streams, building independent financial models, and fostering resilience in response to economic uncertainties.
3. Fostering Social Connections
Festivals are recognised as platforms for addressing societal polarisation and fostering connections within communities. The update emphasises the role of festivals in creating spaces for dialogue, engagement, and collective experiences that encourage mutual understanding and respect.
4. Environmental Responsibility
The update incorporates the need for festivals to adapt to environmental challenges, promoting sustainable practices and engaging audiences with themes of ecological responsibility. It suggests integrating environmental considerations into festival operations and programming to align with broader societal priorities.
5. Strengthening Collaboration and Resilience
The update reinforces the role of festivals in facilitating cross-border collaboration and cultural exchange. It identifies the need for cooperation between festivals, artists, and institutions to address shared challenges and explore new opportunities for partnership.