The 2022 state budget, passed at the Riigikogu on December 8, includes a component for the cultural sector, which totals close to EUR 300 million.
The total culture budget comes to EUR 290 million (or 2% out of the total EUR 13.633 billion expenditures), with EUR 2 million of this going towards support for the film industry. The latter will include entries for regionally made films.
Culture minister Tiit Terik (Center) said: “The state budget for the area of culture for 2022 is distinctly forward-looking. New initiatives such as the cultural backpack and promotion of exercise habits maintain and foster the habit in children and young people to take part in what is being offered in the areas of culture and sport.”
“These budgetary decisions instill confidence with regard to the future that the area of culture and healthy lifestyle are natural parts of our people’s lives,” Terik went on.
Support measures have been earmarked towards Estonian-language instruction for adults, as well as research and development in Estonian culture.
The budget also includes investments in sports grounds available for use year-round. (ERR/Business World Magazine)