Arts sector to get better social protection

From 1 January, people working in the arts sector will be subject to new social regulations that will simplify procedures and reduce paperwork.

The new work certificate, which replaces the current artist status, provides access to various social benefits for artists. This includes people who perform artistic, artistic-technical or artistic-supporting work in the arts, both on and off stage.

The certificate offers specific advantages in terms of social security, such as a replacement income during periods of unemployment between engagements. This is common for artists who often move from one project to another. They will now have to submit a dossier every five years to qualify.

Simple and efficient

"If we, as a government, want to recognise the unique value of artists in rapidly changing times, we must support this value simply and efficiently," said federal Social Affairs minister Frank Vandenbroucke of Flemish socialists Vooruit. He said the work certificate was an example of what social security should be in modern times: "flexible, fine-grained, tailored to evolving artistic practice".

The measures were developed with input from the artists themselves, who were able to highlight problems and solutions on an online platform.

"It's now easier and clearer for everyone"

Michaël Pas of actor's association De Acteursgilde told VRT NWS he was pleased with the new system. "If I can sum it up in one word: simplification," he said. "It's now easier and clearer for everyone, both for the artist applying for unemployment benefit and for the person assessing the case."

In addition to artists, people working behind the scenes, including lighting and set designers, will also benefit from the certificate. Those who pursue an artistic career on a self-employed basis will also benefit from the certification, with a temporary reduction in social security contributions.

^{© ​ BELGA PHOTO MAXIME ASSELBERGHS}