More than 1000 cinema professionals from Europe and many other countries have, since 2004, the extraordinary opportunity to build and develop their skillset, unfold and discuss new ideas and design new business models for the cinema industry, in an continuously-changing media and artistic world. The initiative, a 360 training program designated by Arthouse Cinema Training, is developed by the International Arthouse Cinema Association - CICAE with passion, professionalism and innovation. The value of the initiative is unarguably recognized by the industry professionals and organisations worldwide.

The program is fully aligned with Creative Europe and EU strategic objectives and was funded by MEDIA programme so far, proving its values. For the period 2023-2025 the support was withdrawn, a decision yet to be understood as the criteria and evaluation made public are not transparent or fully supported. Without the main funder the training program will be terminated, denying hundreds of professionals the opportunity to contribute to the industry in an informed and competent fashion. When the president of the European Commission, Ms. Ursula von der Leyen, proposed 2023 to be the European Year of Skills, this is not what she was thinking of, we believe.

After 3 years of pandemic, dealing with an energy crisis, a bellicist context and economical instability, cinemas do not have a positive outline. To cut funding for the most important, complete and well designed training program for cinema exhibitors is to ignore context and need, more than a technical decision. It seems to be an ideological approach, ignoring the effects of the program in the last 18 years, and undoubtedly compromising the future of cinema exhibition at the European and global level. We, alumni, cinema professionals, spectators, cannot accept this without action.

We, the undersigned, urge you, Ms. Lucia Recalde, for action in promoting a redress of the application for funds delivered by the CICAE. Only a reviewed process can make visible a fair evaluation of the training program and allow for much needed funding. This is of urgent and crucial matter, and it’s within your institutional power. 

Sincerely,

Arthouse Cinema Training alumni, spectators, cinema operators, film professionals