Statement: Planned GEMA reform is a missed opportunity

HELLERAU – European Centre for the Arts, as an international production house and important partner institution for numerous projects in the field of so-called serious and popular music, supports the fundamental criticism of the current procedure for the planned reform of cultural funding within GEMA. In particular, there is still a lack of comprehensive and transparently prepared model calculations and information from which the individual financial effects of the reform can be seen. 

The simulations published to date are inadequate for a well-founded and responsible assessment. A procedure of this scope requires transparency, comprehensibility and a genuine opportunity for all those affected to participate. These conditions are not met at present. We are therefore calling for the current voting procedure to be suspended and are in favor of a transparent, fair and open-ended process.

HELLERAU emphasises the international and historical significance of experimental and innovative music that is anchored and supported in Germany. We would also like to emphasise that we are interested in new perspectives and an expanded basis for discussion that takes greater account of younger, internationally networked artists in particular, who no longer think and produce in traditional E-U patterns. 

Especially in the midst of radical and global transformation processes that are dramatically influencing areas such as copyright and free production conditions, the currently planned reform of GEMA is a missed opportunity to further develop the existing solidarity principle for the next generations in a decisive way and together with all artists concerned.

– Moritz Lobeck, Program Director Music/Media Art