Launch of the Ikirenga Artistic Freedom Initiative in Partnership with UNESCO
“Artistic freedom is the freedom to imagine, create and distribute diverse cultural expressions free of governmental censorship, political interference or the pressures of non-State actors. It includes the right of all citizens to have access to these works and is essential for the well-being of societies.” - UNESCO Global Report 2018.
On the 27th of January 2024, Ikirenga Art and Culture Promotion officially launched the Ikirenga Artistic Freedom Initiative, a project run in partnership with UNESCO to promote and protect artistic freedom in Rwanda through the UNESCO-Aschberg Programme.
The event had three objectives.
As we reached a pivotal milestone of completing the research phase of the initiative, we organized the event to officially launch the project.
present research findings to policymakers, stakeholders and artists to provide an invaluable roadmap toward effective strategies to promote and safeguard artistic freedom and the status of artists.
we aimed to hear from stakeholders’ insights, perspectives and recommendations concerning our research, the next phases of the project and the overall artistic freedom.
This launch event marked a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to promote and protect artistic freedom and supported our commitment to empowering artists and cultural practitioners and driving the creative industry, cultural diversity, and social change.
Our partnership with UNESCO strengthens our resolve to promote artistic freedom as a cornerstone of both artistic and cultural expression and rights. UNESCO’s support is instrumental in amplifying our impact and reach, enabling us to advocate for the protection and promotion of artistic freedom, not only in Rwanda but on a global scale.
Ikirenga Artistic Freedom Initiative Training And Mentorship Program
Ikirenga Artistic Freedom Initiative, in partnership with UNESCO, is a project dedicated to promoting and protecting artistic freedom and empowering artists in Rwanda. Through this initiative, we aim to create a vibrant and inclusive environment where artists can freely express themselves, inspire others, and catalyze positive change in their communities.
As a result of the research findings from the first phase of the project regarding challenges that hinder artistic freedom, we started providing artists with the necessary skills to enhance their capacity to create meaningful and impactful art that reflects their diverse cultures, experiences, and perspectives. This is the “Capacity Building” phase, the second phase of the Ikirenga Artistic Freedom Initiative. Through a training and mentorship program and networking opportunities, we aim to foster a Rwandan community of artists who are equipped to navigate the complexities of the artistic landscape and advocate for their rights.
The Ikirenga Artistic Freedom Initiative capacity-building training and mentorship program already started in our two training centers, Kigali and Musanze. We believe that art has the power to transcend boundaries, bridge divides, and foster understanding between people of different backgrounds and beliefs.
