KEY FINDINGS

• Reported attacks on artistic freedom in 2016 perpetrated by both state and non-state actors, mostly against musicians, show a significant rise compared with 2014 and 2015.
• Progress has been made in understanding the importance of protecting and promoting artistic expressions; some states have made commitments and put in place legislative changes to respect this fundamental freedom.
• Measures to support the economic and social rights of artists are increasingly appearing in national legislation, especially in Africa.
• Laws dealing with terrorism and state security, criminal defamation, religion and ‘traditional values’ have been used to curb artistic and other forms of free expression.
• Monitoring and advocacy for arts freedom have grown, as has the number and capacity of organizations who are engaged, including within the United Nations.
• The number of cities providing safe havens for artists at risk has continued to grow, reaching over 80 across the world.

Photo: Rune Guneriussen, Evolution #04, 2005, Norway