Dear Prime Minister:
The European Council of Artists is an umbrella body of interdisciplinary artists’ councils and artists’ associations from 26 countries. ECA has been informed of proposed legislative changes recently were submitted to the Slovak Parliament, which will include the abolition of the 40% tax-free allowance currently in place in respect of artists’ income.
Although diverse, the works of artists are important assets for society. They provide a common ground for the population as well as means of expression for the different groups in the society. They provide spaces for reflection as well as entertainment. As content providers to the cultural and creative industries, artists also contribute to economic growth.
Despite artists’ contribution to society and to the national economy, artistic work is generally not well paid and for many artists it is difficult to make a living. The Slovak 40% tax-free allowance is important to its artists.
The proposal to abolish the 40% tax-free allowance has provoked the artists and the cultural sector in Slovakia to mobilize. ECA declares its support for this movement and urges you to consider their position in the negotiations that we understand that you will be undertaking in the coming days.
Yours sincerely,
Michael Burke Madrid, 10 October 2011
president ECA