Germany Cuts Culture Budget By €130 Million Amid Protests

Berlin's government has approved a €130 million cut to its cultural budget for 2025, despite weeks of protests and warnings from the arts sector, Elise Morton reported for Euronews.

Culture accounts for around 2% of Berlin's economy.

The 12% reduction in funding for arts and culture is part of Berlin’s broader budget plan for the coming year, sparking fears of closures and a diminished cultural standing for the city, known as one of Europe’s artistic hubs.

“Culture and clubs bring people to Berlin. They don’t come here for the food—they come here for the history and the culture,” Emma Enderby, director of the KW Institute for Contemporary Art, told The Art Newspaper.

She expressed concerns about the lack of transparency and foresight in the decision-making process, noting that some organizations may face cuts of up to 50%.

Culture accounts for around 2% of Berlin's economy, but critics argue that the disproportionate cuts could undermine its cultural legacy and economic benefits.