In a joint statement issued during the Education, Youth, Culture and Sport (EYCS) Council in May, leading European film and audiovisual sector organisations called on the EU Council and Parliament to uphold and reinforce the Creative Europe - MEDIA sub-programme, stressing its fundamental role in ensuring a strong, vibrant and independent European film and TV ecosystem.

The signatories, including directors, producers, sales agents, cinema operators, distributors, festivals, and training and networking organisations, urged policymakers to maintain MEDIA as a distinct programme in the next Multiannual Financial Framework. They also advocated for the highest possible budget allocation, and a strategic balance between cultural and industrial priorities.

“The MEDIA programme is a European success story,” the statement reads. “It has supported the growth of a culturally and creatively diverse film and audiovisual sector while fostering European cooperation and audience development.” The programme, which will celebrate its 35th anniversary in 2026, is lauded for boosting the circulation, promotion and development of European works, in line with the challenges of the digital era.

The organisations underscored the sector’s contribution to democratic values, cultural diversity, social cohesion and economic innovation. They also stressed the need for stable and sustainable EU funding mechanisms tailored to the industry’s needs - particularly in the context of the sector’s digital transformation and geopolitical uncertainties.

“Culture fosters a sense of belonging and civic engagement,” the statement concludes, “and in the current context, this support is needed more than ever.”

The signatories include CEPI, EPC, FERA, FIAPF, FIAD, EFP, SAA, UNIC, CICAE, Europa Distribution, Europa International, Eurocinema, IVF, Smart7, FAME and the Audiovisual Training Coalition.