Pearle* welcomes EU-UK commitment on touring artists

At the EU-UK Summit held in London on 19 May 2025, leaders of the European Union and the United Kingdom agreed on a renewed agenda for cooperation – the Common Understanding – setting out shared commitments across a range of areas. Among these, both sides recognised the value of travel and cultural and artistic exchanges, including the activities of touring artists.

Pearle* welcomes this renewed commitment to supporting cultural exchange and mobility. The recognition by the European Union and the United Kingdom of the importance of artistic touring sends a positive signal to the music and performing arts sector, which has faced significant challenges since the UK’s withdrawal from the EU.

Touring has become increasingly complex for many artists and cultural professionals, and Pearle* has consistently called for practical solutions to remove barriers and ensure continued cooperation between the EU and UK cultural sectors. We welcome the ongoing efforts by the EU and the UK in this area and are open to contributing our expertise to future discussions.

This political commitment is a crucial step towards restoring the conditions necessary for seamless artistic mobility – a foundation for vibrant and meaningful cross-border cultural exchange throughout Europe.