The report 'Kultur på svältkur' paints a concerning picture of a sector under strain, with Swedish museums struggling to fulfil their cultural missions amidst financial hardship and external pressures. The report reflects some of the findings of NEMO's recent Barometer on political pressure on museums indicating that Sweden is not alone. Museums across Europe are experiencing political influence and engage in self-censorship out of concern for potential repercussions.
Key findings from the report include:
- Threatening situations and vandalism:
68% of respondents reported social unrest at their workplace in the past two years. Over half (54%) have experienced vandalism, while 31% encountered threatening situations, often linked to exhibitions or public programming. - Self-censorship and avoidance of sensitive topics:
One in four stated their organisation deliberately avoids certain subjects, such as religion, racism, LGBTQ+ issues, gender equality, or climate change, due to the potential for strong public reactions or safety concerns. - Political influence still present:
While political pressure has decreased compared to DIK’s previous survey five years ago, 6% of respondents still reported attempts by politicians to influence exhibitions or programming. The figure rises to 14% among those working in municipal museums. - Compliance with external pressures:
Among those who reported pressure, 6% said their organisation fully conformed to it, and 36% partially adjusted. This trend undermines the Swedish Museums Act, which calls for openness, diversity, and the promotion of fact-based knowledge and free expression. - Critical resource shortages:
90% of respondents feel their organisation lacks sufficient resources to meet its mission. Only 7% believe staffing levels are adequate, while 29% report an unsustainable workload. - Concerns about sponsorship and autonomy:
20% work in organisations that receive regular sponsorship or donations. However, many highlighted the difficulty of attracting private funding with an already high workload, and expressed concern that increased reliance on sponsorship could compromise institutional independence.
Five demands for a stronger, freer museum sector
In response to these findings, DIK is calling on policymakers, employers, and cultural leaders to take decisive action. Their five key demands are:
- Increase resources for the entire museum sector.
- Strengthen the museum act to safeguard everyone's right to culture.
- Reinforce the arm’s length principle.
- Combat threats, abuse and vandalism.
- Ensure sustainable working conditions and job security.
About the report
The report is based on a survey conducted between 4 and 28 March 2025, with responses from 774 DIK members working in museums, galleries, cultural centres, historic sites, and similar institutions. The survey achieved a 44% response rate, offering a robust snapshot of the current challenges facing Sweden’s museum professionals.
