As we represent umbrella organisations of performing and creating artists in
25 European countries we would like emphasis to be laid on the role of the
artists within the convention process:
Art is no equvivalent of culture. Of course we do consider the promotion of
cultural diversity a central issue. ECA is part of the International Network
for Cultural Diversity (INCD) and currently preparing a draft for a parallel
instrument to the WTO for cultural production and services.
We refer to reports on the position of the artists in Europe (among others concerning the social conditions the reports of the Committee on Culture, Youth, Education and the Media if the European Parliament: 'Report on the situation and role of artists in the European Union', 1999, by Helena Vaz da Silva and 'Report on the situation of artists in the European Community', 1991, by Doris Pack).
Moreover, due to the nature of their work artists are dependent on a special
legal framework including the freedom of artistic expression and - in the
enlargement process of the EU - improved travel regulations and less
restriction in the field of work permissions.
To us a European media constitution that should include public service TV
and radio with an obligation of cultural programmes is an essential feature.