Permanent National Commission for the Cultural Pact

The law on the Cultural Pact sets down vital rules for cultural policy in Belgium. The authorities must involve people and associations in their cultural projects.

Public cultural institutions must not discriminate against ideological or philosophical trends, or against users' associations. This applies to both infrastructure use and award of subsidies. In this way, the Cultural Pact guarantees that the cultural sector remains democratic and enables greater participation.

The law on the Cultural Pact also provides for a Permanent National Commission for the Cultural Pact, which is tasked with ensuring compliance with the law. Any person or association believing that the Cultural Pact has been breached may lodge a complaint with the Commission for the Cultural Pact.

The Commission for the Cultural Pact must then investigate the complaint and attempt to reconcile the parties. If this is not successful, the Commission issues a reasoned opinion, which may be accompanied by recommendations.