600 culture, media, and civil society groups unite to urge EU leaders to invest in our democratic future.
In a joint letter published today, more than 600 organisations across the continent are urging leaders to oppose cuts to the next long-term EU budget proposed by the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU.
While the proposal reduces the overall budget by 8%, it cuts funding for AgoraEU — the programme supporting cultural institutions, independent media, and fundamental rights groups — by 30%. This disproportionate cut would do serious damage to Europe’s civil society and cultural sphere, while saving a negligible 0.2% of the overall budget.
AgoraEU funds the very infrastructure that keeps Europeans connected: independent journalism, vibrant cultural spaces, and local associations. At a time when communities feel increasingly divided, these spaces build trust, defend fundamental rights, and give citizens a voice in decisions affecting their lives.
A modern, effective budget must protect the sectors that keep our societies strong and resilient. AgoraEU should be one of those priorities.