The organizers of the Venice Biennale expressed their dissatisfaction with the decision of the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) and stated that they would defend their rights in all relevant institutions to challenge it.
One of the world’s most famous cultural forums, which brings together international exhibitions of art, architecture, film, dance, music, and theater, found itself at the center of political controversy after the organizers announced in March that the Russian pavilion would return. This marked Russia’s first participation in the Biennale since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The Italian government sharply criticized this decision, and the European Commission warned that it might cut off funding if the Russian pavilion were to open after all.
Biennale President Pietrangelo Buttafuoco supported the decision to reinstate Russia, noting that the festival is a “space of coexistence for the entire planet” free from censorship.
The organizers noted that the EU grant funds film projects unrelated to Russia’s participation, which is why they intend to appeal the EACEA’s decision.
As previously reported, the EU suspended funding for the Venice Biennale due to Russia’s participation.
