The opportunity to participate in culture is enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948 and many subsequent declarations.[1] Unfortunately, the subject of artistic freedom is often excluded in both development and general efforts to ensure human rights.[2]
Mimeta particularly seeks to improve the state of artistic freedom and artistic rights in developing countries. This means that Mimeta’s targets for intervention are potential partners who are and will be concerned with promoting artistic freedom in countries eligible for Official Development Assistance (ODA) by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s Development Assistance Committee (OECD/DAC).
This narrowing of focus has several benefits.
First and foremost, it can strengthen the impact of Mimeta’s efforts, as artistic freedom and artistic rights are often neglected in terms of development. As such, there is huge long-term potential in focusing efforts on developing states.
In addition, the focus is cost-effective. Just as in terms of impact, working in areas where artistic freedom and artistic rights are lacking, the value of the intervention increases.
With such organisations being the target of cooperation, the impact will also reach artists and audiences affected by partner organisations' projects to strengthen artistic freedom and opportunities for cultural expression. Yet there are inherent challenges in operating within these areas which might threaten the effectiveness of the work. These considerations will be taken by Mimeta when considering applicants for programs. Furthermore, Mimeta's programs and incorporated projects will prioritise the principle of "leave no one behind" going forward. This entails ensuring the inclusion of individuals with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and marginalised groups within the communities targeted for intervention.[3]
[1] The ‘Universal Declaration of Human Rights’ of 1948. https://www.un.org/sites/un2.un.org/files/2021/03/udhr.pdf
[2] https://www.ohchr.org/en/documents/thematic-reports/a78213-development-and-cultural-rights-international-governance A 2023 report from the UN Special Rapporteur in the field of cultural rights, Alexandra Xanthaki, discussing the lack of concern for including culture in international development.
[3] The UN developed a shared framework for ‘’Leave no one behind’’ 2017, https://digitallibrary.un.org/record/1628748
