Finland to limit participation in Venice Biennale due to participation by Russia

Finland to limit participation in Venice Biennale due to participation by Russia

Finland will refrain from participating in the Venice Biennale at the political level if Russia takes part in the Art Exhibition. Participation will be maintained at the level of public officials. Finland emphasises its backing of Ukraine and its commitment to European cooperation.

"Finland's political leadership will not be participating in the Venice Biennale if Russia is included among the exhibitors. However, we believe promoting Finnish art and cultural expression, and supporting artists and actors is important. For this reason, Finland will have public officials participating in the Biennale," says Minister of Science and Culture Mari-Leena Talvitie.

Finland's position on Russia's participation in international forums is clear: participation must not be permitted as long as Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine continues. The Ministry of Education and Culture has been monitoring the situation during the spring and will continue to work with European partners to strengthen the common position.

The Russia Federation intends to open its own pavilion at the Venice Biennale for the first time since the start of the war of aggression in 2022. The Venice Biennale board has justified its decision to allow Russia to participate based on reasons such as artistic freedom, promotion of dialogue, and rejection of censorship.

The decision has prompted widespread reactions in Europe. Altogether 22 European Ministers for Culture and for Foreign Affairs, including Finland, have signed a joint letter calling upon the leadership of the Biennale to reconsider the participation of the Russian Federation. The European Commission has also announced the possibility of suspending or recovering EU funding to the Biennale.

The Venice Biennale is the oldest and one of the most prestigious art exhibitions for visual arts in the world. Its decisions play an instrumental role, and the Biennale functions as a key platform for cultural exchange and artistic interaction. For this reason, the role also involves responsibility for artists.

Finland will continue to demonstrate steadfast support to Ukraine and commitment to promoting democratic values and European cooperation.

Inquiries: Johanna Koponen, Ministerial Adviser, tel +358 295 330 003