As European institutions reflect on the future financial framework of the EU (MFF) and the future of its programmes, national film agencies in 31 European countries are calling for the strengthening of the MEDIA programme. The group of national film agencies (EFADs) believes that an annual budget of €150 million – in comparison to a little more than €100 million – would strengthen its efficient mechanisms and develop new actions. 

Among these initiatives, European film agencies draw attention in particular to: 

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• the expansion of the Europa Cinemas cinema network, "which has demonstrated its added value and should be supported further "
• the improved promotion and visibility of European content online, in line with the measures foreseen by the AVMS directive
• the development of an "external pillar" that would support the distribution and promotion of European films outside the EU, as well as international co-productions with third countries
• the improvement of broadcasting tools for the results of supported projects, the collection and the processing of data on the impact of MEDIA support.

In his statement, the president of EFADs, Peter Dinges, who also chairs the regulatory authority of German cinema (FFA), reminds us of the importance of the programme in promoting European values, creativity and cultural diversity within the context of nationalistic and populist movements, which are gaining new ground in Europe. "If we want the digital single market that the European Commission is currently trying to build to be strong and effective, we need to feed this market with high-quality content and to encourage the distribution of content. This involves combining the strength of national support with targeted support at a European level." 

On 14 March, in a resolution (click here) voted in plenary in Strasbourg on the future European Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), MEPs also expressed their support for programmes relating to culture and media, "which have clearly demonstrated their European added value and which enjoy a lasting reputation among beneficiaries." This implies "continued investment" in programmes such as Erasmus+ and Creative Europe, whose external dimensions should be strengthened.

Click here to access the full response of the EFADs to the public consultation on European funding.