This year, the Locarno Film Festival takes on a special dimension, marked by the first participation of Federal Councillor Elisabeth Baume-Schneider and the new festival president, Maja Hoffmann, in their respective roles.
On Wednesday evening, the two women officially launched the festivities. “I’m not hiding my pleasure,” Elisabeth Baume-Schneider said with a smile on Thursday’s RTS Forum show, adding that she particularly appreciates the exchanges with cultural actors.
The Federal Councillor in charge of Culture underlines the good health of Swiss cinema, recognised on the international scene thanks to its diversity: “This ecosystem is crucial, and we can observe its richness here, in Locarno.”
>> Listen to the interview with Elisabeth Baume-Schneider in Forum:
More than 50 Swiss films presented at the Locarno festival: interview with Elisabeth Baume-Schneider / Forum / 4 min. / Thursday at 6:04 p.m.
Money, the sinews of war
Elisabeth Baume-Schneider, who will be in Locarno until Saturday, plans to see several films and actively participate in cultural discussions.
On Saturday, she will bring together various stakeholders from the sector to discuss current issues and the importance of a joint commitment to culture in Switzerland. “Funding cinema with federal public funds is anchored in the Constitution. But it is also essential to collaborate with the cantons, municipalities and foundations, as well as private partners. Culture must not be constrained by funding, but it needs support to have more freedom.”
However, the budgetary context remains tense. Many cultural actors have expressed their discontent with the cuts in the “culture” budget of Swiss Development Aid. On this subject, Elisabeth Baume-Schneider refrains from commenting directly on the decision of her colleague Ignazio Cassis.
“We are all facing difficult choices. The finances of the Confederation force us to consider austerity measures. It is essential to ensure consistency in these decisions.”
The Confederation is considering selling its Venetian palace
Another controversy has emerged around the Swiss Arts Council, Pro Helvetia, which plans to end its activities in Venice in 2026, according to the Sunday View.
Starting next year, the foundation will begin to reduce its residency offerings and artistic programs in the city of the Doges, where it occupies the Palazzo Trevisan. The Federal Office for Buildings and Logistics is currently evaluating whether other offices could use the vacated spaces, or whether Switzerland could sell the floor it occupies in the building, which also houses its consulate. A decision criticized by the Ticino State Council.
Elisabeth Baume-Schneider acknowledges the concerns raised by this decision: “I have heard the concerns and criticism, particularly from the people of Ticino. Pro Helvetia is exploring different options and is entering into discussions with its partners. But in times of austerity, it is impossible to do as much with fewer resources.”
