OUR GOALS
1
Obtain recognition from the EU that cinema and audiovisual are cultural players
This recognition would ensure they are protected by a specifically cultural European legal framework (see below), and that all future EU policies concerning cinema and audiovisual (geoblocking, the AVMS Directive, the Copyright Directive, AI, etc.) will be addressed from this legislative perspective.
It is essential to have the EU acknowledge that cinema and audiovisual are not simply “media” (to avoid legislative confusion), but cultural players in creation, despite being broadcast by certain media organizations (which also distribute other types of content: news, sports, magazines, reality shows, etc.).
2
Preserve the principle of cultural exception (adopted by the EU in 1994)
Culture, including cinema and audiovisual, should not be considered solely through the lens of an industry subject to market rules. The cinema and audiovisual sectors must remain systematically excluded from trade negotiations to prevent them from becoming bargaining chips in tense industrial discussions, particularly with the USA and China.
3
Preserve the EU's cultural competence limits regarding culture (as defined by the Treaty of Lisbon)
Currently, the EU only has a supporting, coordinating, or complementary role in cultural matters, with no regulatory authority over culture.
4
Ensure absolute compliance with Article 167
Article 167, drafted at the time of the Union’s foundation, requires the EU and Member States to protect the national and regional cultural diversity of every State.
5
Categorically reject the introduction of article 114
The introduction of this article would completely reverse existing competencies, stripping member states—including France—of their sovereign ability to manage their cultural policies. This would allow the EU to impose regulations that could lower industry standards, threatening the economic model of cinema and audiovisual. As a result, France would almost certainly lose its current position as the world's third-largest film industry.
6
The risk of culture being politically disregarded by European citizens
For months, we have been calling for cinema and audiovisual to return to the portfolio of a strong Commissioner for Culture, as well as for MEDIA to be reintegrated into the Directorate-General for Education, Youth, Sport, and Culture (DG EAC). However, recent months have confirmed that cinema and audiovisual remain within the portfolio of Commissioner Virkkunnen, who is primarily responsible for technological sovereignty.