Culture matters are also decided in the European Union

Fellow student! The European Parliament elections are almost here, with pre-voting from May 29th to June 4th and the main voting day on June 6th, 2024. This is your chance to make your voice heard and shape the future of EU legislation. Don’t let your vote go to waste—your participation is crucial! 

If you are an EU citizen, a resident in Finland, and over 18 years old, you have the right to vote in Finland. Here’s why your vote matters: 

The EU profoundly impacts your life and future as a young artist. Here’s how: 

Cultural Funding and Support: The European Parliament allocates significant funding for arts and culture through programs like Creative Europe, which provide essential grants and support for artists and cultural projects across Europe. By voting, you can ensure that MEPs who prioritize and increase this funding are elected, benefiting the entire arts sector, including international students. 

Freedom of Expression: It’s vital for artists to have the right to express themselves freely. The European Parliament plays a key role in defending freedom of expression and artistic freedom within member states. Voting in these elections helps uphold and promote these values, allowing you to create and share your work without fear of censorship. 

Cultural Exchange and Mobility: EU policies facilitate cultural exchange and mobility for artists. Programs like Erasmus+ allow art students to study and collaborate across Europe, enriching their educational experience and broadening their horizons. Voting ensures continued support for these programs and the election of MEPs who advocate for easier cross-border collaboration. 

Intellectual Property Rights: The European Parliament influences legislation on intellectual property rights, directly affecting your ability to protect and monetize your work. Active participation in elections helps ensure these laws are balanced and fair, safeguarding your creative endeavors. 

Sustainability and Environmental Policies: Art students often engage with themes of sustainability and the environment. The European Parliament’s decisions on environmental policies impact the availability of resources and funding for environmentally themed art projects. Electing environmentally conscious MEPs can lead to more initiatives and funding opportunities for sustainable art. 

Social and Political Influence: Art reflects and critiques social and political realities. The European Parliament’s stance on issues like human rights, equality, and social justice influences the context in which you create and share your work. Voting allows you to shape the political landscape that influences your artistic practice. 

Networking and Professional Opportunities: The European Union supports numerous networks and platforms for artists to connect, collaborate, and showcase their work on a larger scale. These opportunities are often influenced by the policies and priorities set by the European Parliament. By voting, you can help elect representatives who prioritize expanding these networks and opportunities. 

Digital Transformation and Access: The European Parliament’s decisions on digital policy impact access to digital tools and platforms essential for modern art practice and distribution. Supporting candidates who advocate for digital innovation and accessibility can enhance the resources available to you. 

Diversity and Inclusion: The European Parliament works on promoting diversity and inclusion, crucial values in the arts community. Voting helps ensure that representatives who prioritize these values are in power, fostering a more inclusive cultural environment. 

These factors directly affect your life as an art student. Exercising your political rights in the upcoming EU elections will have a significant impact. Don’t miss this opportunity to shape a brighter future for the arts in Europe. Vote and make your voice heard! 

Don't know who to vote for? There are many voting aid services that help you to filter the parties and candidates. One of them is Yle voting compass which you find here: Ylen äänestyskone.