The European Commission is considering revoking the Venice Biennale's grant due to Russia's participation
The European Commission has received a response from the organizers of the Venice Biennale to its inquiry regarding Russia’s participation in the 61st International Exhibition. The EU’s executive body will now review the document and consider possible measures, including regarding the funding of a €2 million grant.
This was announced during a briefing by European Commission spokesperson Thomas Rigne, according to DW.
“We have indeed received a response from the Biennale. The next step for the European Commission will be to evaluate it before deciding on potential next steps,” Renier said.
According to him, in particular, “suspending or terminating the current €2 million grant” is being considered.
It is noted that the European Commission had previously demanded explanations from the organizers of the Venice Biennale regarding the participation of the Russian pavilion. Brussels believes this violates EU sanctions against Russia.
The Russian pavilion at this year’s Biennale was presented for the first time since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The decision to allow Russia’s participation drew criticism from the European Union and Ukraine.
Earlier, the European Commission had again called on the Venice Biennale not to allow Russia to participate
The Venice Biennale changed its award format following the resignation of the international jury
