Resignation of the Venice Biennale Jury Due to Dispute Over Russia's Return to the Exhibition
All members of the international jury of the Venice Biennale today resigned following the latest escalation of a months-long political conflict over Russia's return to this prestigious international cultural event.
TL;DR
- The international jury of the Venice Biennale resigned due to a political conflict over Russia's return.
- The jury's decision was motivated by a refusal to cooperate with countries whose leaders are accused of crimes against humanity, including Russia and Israel.
- The Russian pavilion had been closed since Russia's "special military operation" in Ukraine began in 2022.
- The European Commission announced it would suspend funding for the Biennale due to the decision to include Russian artists in 2026.
- The Italian Minister of Culture sent inspectors to examine if Russia's participation aligned with sanctions.
- The Biennale Foundation stated it would change award procedures, allowing visitors to decide the Golden Lion winner.
- Ukraine's Foreign Minister thanked the jury and criticized the Biennale's decision, calling it a "cowardly choice" that serves the aggressor.
- The Ukrainian Foreign Minister urged the Biennale organizers to reverse their decision regarding Russia's inclusion.