Better protection for performing artists working outside their home country

In the own initiative report on the social security status of artists by Claire Gibault (ALDE, FR), adopted unanimously, the committee explains that many artists in Europe, be it singers, musicians or - like the rapporteur herself - conductors, have experienced problems when trying to perform in other countries, or trying to transfer their social rights. International co-productions of live performances, circus or audiovisual productions have been increasing the mobility of many artists, and thus increasing the need for a clearer legal status for the European artists.

 

 

MEPs in the committee highlight the fact that in some Member States certain categories of artist do not enjoy legal status.  Often, they are not aware of their rights under existing EU legislation. Therefore the committee urges the Commission - in cooperation with the sector - to draw up a practical handbook for European artists, where they can find information about sickness insurance, unemployment benefits and similar issues. The committee also wants the Commission to launch a pilot project introducing a European electronic social security card, specifically intended for European artists.

 

In order to facilitate the mobility of the artists, the report proposes that the Commission and the Member states introduce a database, in line with the Europass, an initiative launched in 2004 to make it easier to get qualifications recognised in other Member States. This would list the status of the artist as well as his or her previous contracts.

 

The report also stresses the importance of the teaching of artistic activities and calls on the member states to step up training of arts teachers, and to create specialised training structures for those working in the cultural sector.

 

 

The committee also raises the problems that third country artists face in terms of visas and work permits, when for instance Russian musicians or Brazilian dancers come to Europe. Therefore, they call on the Commission to reflect on regime applicable to artists and begin to draw up Community rules in this area which could lead to the introduction of a specific temporary visa for European and third country artists, as it already is the case in some member states.