Berlin’s Incoming Culture Senator Vows to Fight Further Budget Cuts
Berlin’s soon-to-be Culture Senator, Sarah Wedl-Wilson, has firmly stated her opposition to further blanket cuts to the city’s cultural budget for the next two years. In an interview with RBB’s Radio3, the independent politician acknowledged the significant savings of 130 million euros already implemented in the current year’s budget, achieved largely through drawing down reserves. However, she emphasized that this approach is no longer sustainable, asserting, "We can’t do it, we cannot take this high amount out of culture in Berlin."
Wedl-Wilson underscored the immense challenge ahead, describing it as a "Herculean task." She envisions a collaborative effort with Berlin’s cultural community to highlight the vital role and significance of the cultural scene for the city and its residents, emphasizing the intrinsic value of culture to society as a whole. Concurrently, she acknowledged the necessity of exploring innovative ideas to reduce costs, streamline structures, and generate additional revenue within the arts and culture sector.
To address these challenges, Wedl-Wilson announced the initiation of a "cultural dialogue" between the Senate and cultural institutions. This dialogue aims to identify areas for improvement, explore potential efficiencies, and unlock untapped potential, with the ultimate goal of minimizing the impact of budget constraints on artistic endeavors. The emphasis will be on finding creative solutions that preserve the vibrancy and diversity of Berlin’s cultural landscape while ensuring its long-term sustainability.
Wedl-Wilson specifically mentioned potential strategies such as shared storage facilities (depots) and logistical resources for theaters. She also suggested exploring the feasibility of consolidating ticket offices across different venues, streamlining payroll administration, and sharing other essential services. Furthermore, she highlighted the possibility for cultural institutions to increase revenue by renting out their spaces for events and other activities. These measures are intended to optimize resource allocation and foster greater collaboration within the cultural sector.
Addressing concerns about potential privatization, Wedl-Wilson vehemently dismissed the notion, labeling it as "fake news." She clarified that the cultural dialogue will not, in any way, involve the privatization of cultural institutions. The focus, she stated, is on evaluating the structural framework within which these institutions operate, particularly in light of the current financial constraints. The goal is to ensure that cultural organizations are equipped to navigate the present "emergency situation" effectively.
Wedl-Wilson explicitly ruled out any measures that would lead to "Tarifflucht" (escaping collective bargaining agreements) or job losses. She stressed that the primary objective is to explore enhanced collaboration and cooperation among cultural institutions, whether through loose alliances, as has been the practice, or through more integrated partnerships. She noted that discussions are underway regarding the potential establishment of a foundation, similar to the successful Opernstiftung (Opera Foundation), as a medium-term solution. This model would provide a more stable and secure financial foundation for cultural institutions.
The nomination of Sarah Wedl-Wilson as Berlin’s new Culture Senator was announced by Governing Mayor Kai Wegner (CDU) on Monday. Her swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for May 22 in the Abgeordnetenhaus (House of Representatives). Wedl-Wilson succeeds Joe Chialo (CDU), who resigned from the position last Friday. Her appointment comes at a critical juncture for Berlin’s cultural sector, as it grapples with significant budget challenges and seeks to adapt to a changing landscape.
Wedl-Wilson’s background as the previous State Secretary for Culture provides her with valuable insights into the workings of the city’s cultural institutions and the challenges they face. This experience will be crucial as she navigates the complex task of balancing budget constraints with the need to preserve and promote Berlin’s rich cultural heritage. Her commitment to fostering collaboration, exploring innovative solutions, and protecting the interests of cultural workers signals a proactive approach to safeguarding the future of Berlin’s cultural scene.
The "cultural dialogue" that Wedl-Wilson has announced will be a key platform for engaging with cultural stakeholders, gathering their perspectives, and developing strategies that are both fiscally responsible and supportive of artistic excellence. The success of this dialogue will depend on open communication, mutual trust, and a shared commitment to finding solutions that benefit the entire cultural community. The coming months will be crucial as Wedl-Wilson begins her tenure and works to implement her vision for the future of culture in Berlin. The city’s vibrant artistic community, and the public at large, will be watching closely to see how she navigates these challenges and shapes the cultural landscape of Berlin.
