Mali, 14-16 September 2014
Article 8 exists in the Malian Constitution however much remains to be done for artistic rights. Indeed, these rights are not limited to freedom of expression, but they also include the right to information and to work benefits. During the workshop coordinated by the Réseau Kya from 14th to 16th Sepetmber at Hotel Colibris, the 25 participants received more tools to defend their rights and improve their advocacy efforts.
Uganda, 18-20 September 2014
No Ministry of Culture in Uganda, it is a department under the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (MGLSD). This gives you an idea of the situation of artist and their right. During this 3-day training, 15 participants were made aware of articles and legal instruments which can help them with their role within civil society. It was also an occasion to strengthen the Arterial Network National Chapter in Uganda.
DRC, 22-24 September 2014
“Act immediately and collaborate to establish a Status of Artist”. That is the next step defined by the 20 participants of the Artwatch Africa Workshop. The workshop was coordinated by Collectif Lamuka and was held at IF Kinshasa from 22nd to 24th September. Debates, sometimes heated, helped artist to define their rule in society and how to advocate for their rights.
Ghana, 9-10 October 2014
“In Ghana we have no problems regarding freedom of artistic expression. This is perhaps because no-one has as yet demonstrated against the government. But at the same time, the public is more open. This painting depicting a naked woman is not considered particularly shocking”. In Ghana, an exemplary country, it is the case. This is because, unlike others, the state has instituted several laws such as the Entertainment Law and other policies without waiting for the ratification of an international agreement. It is true this process requires much effort, but the foundation has been laid. This 2 day training session enabled the different cultural actors and artists in particular to gain a better understanding of the achievements and also the efforts made by some members of Ghanaian civil society in this matter.
Namibia, 28-29 October 2014
It is never easy to define Culture. Each one has his own idea on the subject. Even as artists it is often not easy to do, particularly in the context of “cultural community”. These training meetings provided the opportunity for the 16 participants to share their frustrations particularly towards the Windhoek National Art Gallery, but also in respect of the inequalities which exist between the different disciplines. At the end of these two days of difficult training, a fundamental point was established: the need to work in synergy when it comes to protecting the rights and interests of the artist. This is in order to be heard better and respected as artists.
Algeria, 20-22 November 2014
Cameroon, 24-26 November 2014
Gabon, 27-29 November 2014
Tanzania, 28-30 November
Congo, 1-2 December 2014
Zambia, 1-3 December 2014
Benin, 11-13 December 2014
