FoMC Supports Dedicated Music Funding in the AgoraEU Proposal
The Federation of Music Conferences (FoMC) considers the current draft report on AgoraEU by MEPs Emma Rafowicz and Alice Kuhnke an important contribution to the ongoing discussion on the future of European cultural funding.
At a time when European cultural programmes risk becoming increasingly consolidated across sectors, FoMC strongly supports the report’s recognition that music requires dedicated and clearly earmarked support structures at EU level. The proposed Music strand is an important step toward ensuring that music does not lose visibility within broader cultural funding frameworks.
As a network of music conferences and showcase festivals across Europe, FoMC particularly welcomes the report’s emphasis on cross-border circulation, professional exchange, mobility and international collaboration. Conferences and showcase platforms are essential infrastructures for connecting artists, professionals and emerging markets, while fostering innovation, diversity and sustainable ecosystem development throughout Europe.
FoMC also believes that strengthening the next generation of music professionals must be a central priority of future European cultural policy. Music conferences and showcase festivals increasingly serve as spaces for mentorship, knowledge exchange, capacity building and international networking for emerging professionals entering the sector. Supporting these ecosystems means investing not only in today’s music industry, but in its future leadership and resilience.
FoMC also supports the proposal for a European Music Observatory. Access to reliable and shared data is crucial for understanding the realities of the sector and for developing informed cultural policies that reflect the economic and social value of music in Europe.
The proposed 15% allocation for music represents an important starting point. However, to fully support the diversity and long-term resilience of Europe’s music ecosystems, ambitious implementation and adequate financial commitment will be essential.
FoMC and its members across Europe look forward to contributing to the ongoing dialogue around AgoraEU and the future of European cultural cooperation.
