Following recent decisions requiring the closure of cinemas across several European countries in response to spikes in COVID-19, the Brussels-headquartered International Union of Cinemas (UNIC) has called upon national governments, the European Commission, and the European Parliament to provide further public funding support to the sector. “Today we call on governments across Europe to recognize the unique social, cultural and economic value of the European cinema industry, and to provide the funding support it so desperately needs to survive this unprecedented period,” the statement read.
UNIC represents the interests of cinema trade associations and operators covering 38 countries in Europe and neighboring regions. Citing the employment provided by the sector in Europe and its €8.8 billion ($10.3 billion) 2019 box office, UNIC has demanded that cinemas be included in national recovery plans without crippling conditions. “Urgent financial support must be made available for the industry and, looking ahead, cinemas must be included in national recovery plans, both as part of, and alongside, the ‘Next Generation EU’ program," the statement read.
Cinemas in France and Germany recently closed as lockdown measures were reintroduced and theatres in England will begin a month-long closure from Thursday. “For decades, cinemas have contributed significantly to the GDP of each territory and paid billions in taxes," UNIC stated. "Cinemas employ tens of thousands of people across Europe, supporting the entire film industry, from production to distribution, as well as many other businesses, including the local shops and services which benefit from having a Big Screen on their doorstep."
UNIC noted that the European box office reached €8.8bn in 2019 and cinemas employed thousands of people in the regon. It also cited that Covid cases have not been linked to cinema and audiences have returned in strong numbers when new films have been released. “The criteria for aid should take into account factors such as the many jobs created by cinemas, both directly and indirectly, as well as their huge impact on the supply chain and local businesses," UNIC said. "Should adequate and swift support not be provided, the potential consequences in both a cultural and social sense would be nothing short of catastrophic.”
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Should adequate and swift support not be provided, the potential consequences in both a cultural and social sense would be nothing short of catastrophic.” International Union of Cinemas (UNIC)
