The publication outlines the types of disruptive behaviours currently affecting the cultural sector, ranging from protests and verbal attacks to physical assaults, vandalism, and coordinated online harassment. It highlights how such incidents threaten not only the wellbeing of cultural workers and audiences but also the wider principles of democratic participation, cultural expression, and social cohesion.
“A Guide to Managing Incidents and Promoting Safety in Culture” offers clear and actionable advice structured around four key questions:
- What is happening?
- What to do?
- What are our rights and duties?
- What resources are available?
It includes recommendations for planning ahead, managing incidents in real time, and taking steps after an event. A dedicated section explains the legal framework surrounding rights and obligations, helping cultural professionals understand how to protect themselves and their organisations. The publication also compiles essential resources for dealing with hate crimes, digital threats and other forms of violence.
By mapping recent examples and identifying common patterns across countries, the guide encourages cultural organisations to strengthen safety protocols, support affected professionals, and reject the normalisation of extremism and violence. It stresses the need for coordinated action to safeguard cultural freedom and protect the people who make cultural participation possible.
The publication has been jointly produced by Access Culture, BAD – Portuguese Association of Librarians, Archivists, Information and Documentation Professionals, ICOM Portugal, Performart and REDE – Association for Contemporary Dance.
NEMO and independent museums
NEMO supports museums’ independence and ability to act freely since museums must operate within a framework of professional independence and responsibility to fulfil their mission and societal role effectively. NEMO works to safeguard museums' independence, ensuring they remain trusted institutions and empower them to play a vital role in society, even amidst polarisation. Explore our page on Independent museums for resources and help.
