2026 UNESCO-Aschberg Programme

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) invites applications from governments, public institutions, and civil society organizations for the 2026 UNESCO-Aschberg Programme. The programme supports initiatives that protect and promote the status of artists and artistic freedom globally.

Application Deadline: 23 February 2026 (23:59 UTC+1)

Objectives

The programme seeks to strengthen the rights of artists as recognized under international law, including:

• The right to create without censorship or intimidation.
• The right to have artistic work supported, distributed, and remunerated.
• Freedom of movement for artists.
• Freedom of association.
• Protection of the social and economic rights of artists.
• Everyone’s right to participate in cultural life.

Programme Tracks

Track 1 – Governments and Public Institutions

• Offers technical assistance to help design or revise laws, regulations, policies, and measures that promote the status of artists and artistic freedom.
• Applicants may request up to USD 30,000 to support logistics, such as meetings, consultations, capacity-building sessions, and communication activities.

Track 2 – Civil Society Organizations

• Provides financial assistance for innovative projects that advance artists’ rights and artistic freedom at local, national, regional, or international levels.
• Eligible activities include capacity building, advocacy, monitoring, research, and emergency support.
• Applicants may request up to USD 50,000 to cover project implementation costs, including:
  • Organizing training, workshops, and other capacity-building activities
  • Developing tools, resources, and communication materials
  • Conducting advocacy, research, and monitoring activities
  • Providing emergency support such as residencies, relocation, or safe workspaces
  • Other logistics necessary for project execution

Focus Areas

Projects can address challenges in improving the professional, social, and economic status of artists, including:

• Training and lifelong learning
• Social security and decent working conditions
• Fair remuneration and adapted taxation
• Mobility of artists and cultural professionals
• Freedom of artistic expression

How to Apply

Applicants must submit a project proposal through the official UNESCO-Aschberg Programme application platform, including:

• A description of the project, objectives, and expected outcomes
• Proposed activities and implementation plan
• Preliminary budget (depending on the chosen track)

This programme is an opportunity to strengthen artists’ rights, enhance cultural policies, and support sustainable artistic communities worldwide.