In response to the current misuse of students and cultural institutions by representatives of the Slovak government, we have decided to organize a student discussion in support of democracy titled: Is the State Hijacking Culture?
Student Discussion in Support of Democracy
Is the State Hijacking Culture?
Synagogue – Centre for Contemporary Art, Halenárska 2, Trnava
February 25, 2026, 10:00 AM
How does culture operate in Slovakia today? Who decides which projects receive support—and where is the line between public interest and interference with freedom?
We invite students to an open discussion with representatives of cultural institutions about the current state of culture in Slovakia and its role in a democratic society.
Our guests will be asked how state funding for culture works in practice and what mechanisms determine the allocation of support. We will discuss whether and to what extent politics influences the decisions and direction of cultural institutions. The discussion will also address where legitimate public interest ends and restrictions on artistic freedom begin. Together, we will explore why independent culture is a cornerstone of democracy and what weakening it could mean for society as a whole.
Speakers:
Zuzana Hekel
Adrian Kobetič
Veronika Nemcová
