Applications are now open for the 2026 UNESCO–Aschberg Programme, an international funding opportunity designed to strengthen the protection and advancement of artists’ rights and artistic freedom. The call is open to governments, public bodies, and civil society organizations whose work supports creative communities and cultural ecosystems. The programme focuses on initiatives that uphold artistic freedom in its broadest sense, including the freedom to create without fear, the right for artistic work to be supported and fairly paid, freedom of movement and association for artists, protection of their social and economic rights, and the universal right of people to engage in cultural life.

Through this call, support is available for projects that contribute to stronger policies, systems, and practices that improve the lives and working conditions of artists and cultural professionals. Eligible initiatives may focus on areas such as professional development and lifelong learning, access to social protection and decent working conditions, fair payment and appropriate tax frameworks, mobility opportunities for artists, protection of freedom of expression, and broader efforts that strengthen the creative sector.

The programme offers two funding pathways. One pathway is designed for governments and public institutions seeking technical support to review, improve, or develop laws, policies, and measures that safeguard artistic freedom and enhance the status of artists. While this support is largely based on expert guidance, applicants under this track may request up to USD 30,000 to cover implementation-related costs such as organizing consultations, meetings, capacity-building sessions, and communication activities, and are expected to include a preliminary budget with their application. The second pathway is aimed at civil society organizations and provides financial support of up to USD 50,000 for innovative projects that advance artists’ rights at local, national, regional, or international level. Funding can be used for activities such as trainings and workshops, development of tools and resources, advocacy and awareness campaigns, research and monitoring, emergency assistance for artists and cultural institutions, including relocation or safe spaces, and other essential operational costs linked directly to project delivery.

Eligible applicants under the public institution track include national ministries with relevant mandates such as culture, labour, finance, communication, tourism or social affairs, as well as national arts councils, cultural committees, and parliamentary bodies working on cultural and creative sector issues. The overall aim of the programme is to ensure that artists can work freely, safely, and sustainably, while societies benefit from vibrant and diverse cultural expression.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached below to apply for this opportunity