Polish Ministry of Culture withheld poll results on artist subsidies

The Polish Ministry of Culture commissioned a survey to gauge public opinion on a proposed law regarding social security subsidies for artists, but the ministry did not release the results publicly. The findings, obtained via a freedom of information request, reveal that 58 percent of respondents oppose the subsidies, while only 22 percent support them. Additionally, 73 percent of those surveyed believe artistic work should be subject to the same rules as any other profession.

The proposed legislation aims to provide support to approximately 20,000 of the lowest-earning creators whose income has not exceeded 125 percent of the minimum wage over the last three years. Despite the negative poll results, Minister Marta Cienkowska has defended the project, stating that the support is intended for those who truly need state assistance and that the creative community is too diverse to be considered privileged.

The ministry has spent over 60,000 PLN on promotional activities, including radio spots, to encourage support for the measure. The bill is expected to return to the Sejm in mid-September for further consideration by the Culture and National Heritage Committee.