On January 20th Tunisia became the 12th non-European country to be part of Creative Europe, or more specifically its sub-programme, MEDIA, which gives financial support to the broadcasting sector. In particular MEDIA helps distribute works from European broadcasters and gives financial support for independent productions.
The three “European presidents” Donald Tusk, Jean-Claude Juncker and Martin Schulz, plus Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi, are all behind this initiative which should strengthen the already existing links between the EU and Tunisia and enable those working in the cultural sector to develop their activities.
It should be noted however that Tunisia’s participation in MEDIA will remain limited until the Europe Creative agreement has been signed. However, it is already possible to apply for help for film festivals, literary translations and also, for “cultural platforms”.
According to Nathalie Vandystadt, spokesperson for the European Commission’s Digital Single Market, there should be a Europe Creative office in Tunis by 2018. This will give local cultural operators and broadcasters access to information on how to take part in the MEDIA programme.
Sources : Cineuropa, European Comission, Creative Europe
