The Movement for Art and Culture in the Azores (MOVA) has warned of “the lack of clarity and technical limitations” of the new Legal Framework for Support for Cultural Activities, which are causing “serious difficulties in the ongoing application process.”

In a note, the movement states that, “although it is an essential instrument for the sustainability of the Azorean cultural sector, the model now presented calls into question the predictability, fairness, and transparency of access to support.”

“The creation of support thresholds was intended to ensure predictability for applicants. However, the introduction of the ‘Intended means’ field in the form raises questions: does it merely repeat the threshold amount, or does it mean that the amount requested may not be guaranteed in full?” it asks.

According to MOVA, “it is unclear whether amounts not allocated at one level automatically transfer to others, or whether this redistribution also applies between different disciplinary areas and based on what criteria.” In addition, “the regulation limits the inclusion of fees to 7% of the budget, without clear justification for this figure.”

The movement emphasizes that “fees are an integral part of cultural production” and that “this restriction constitutes an obstacle to professionalization and good employment practices in the sector.” MOVA notes that “the distinction between sustained support (activity plans for structures) and one-off support (isolated or individual projects) remains ambiguous, making it difficult for applicants to decide.” Finally, it warns that, “29 days before the deadline, the submission platform remains inoperative, with no indication of alternatives for sending documentation.”

In this regard, MOVA “has officially requested clarification on these points from the Regional Directorate for Culture” and advocates “the need to reassess the deadline for submitting applications in order to ensure fair and transparent conditions for all Azorean cultural agents.” The movement reaffirmed its willingness to “collaborate with public entities in building a clearer, more inclusive, and more feasible process, commensurate with the importance of culture for the Azores.”

In Diário Insular, José Lourenço-director

Translated into English as a community outreach program by the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL), in collaboration with Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno. PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.

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