Independent cultural centres across Slovakia have long served as an essential pillar of civil society and a cornerstone of democratic values; encouraging critical thinking, and civic engagement.  They are now facing a targeted attack: recent political changes to the Slovak Arts Council have stripped cultural centres of essential state support, which threatens their very existence.

In response, the Slovakian Anténa network of independent cultural centres is launching a fundraising campaign so that these centres  –including our partner A4 in Bratislava– can survive throughout 2026, and continue to offer artistic and non-commercial programming to communities and wide audiences all across Slovakia.

What is happening in Slovakia is sadly not an isolated case, reflecting a broader pattern that could unfold anywhere. This is a moment to come together in solidarity and support our Slovak friends and colleagues to keep these spaces alive in defense of community and free artistic expression.

Photo by Matej Mikloš