The aim of this paper is to provoke initial thinking around some of the complex issues surrounding artistic freedom to be explored in the 9th World Summit on Arts and Culture in Stockholm from 2–5 May 2023.

A discussion paper is developed, published and shared online prior to each World Summit to introduce participants, prospective delegates and the broader international community to the Summit programme theme and key concepts and issues.

The publication intends to situate conversations about artistic freedom in the wider global context, as well as the more local context in which delegates will meet; and offer diverse personal and contextual accounts of artistic freedom, with a view to identifying challenges in and opportunities for its safeguarding.

It brings together eight cultural experts from different world regions who have contributed essays, drawing from their professional journeys and lived experiences as artists, activists, collectives, curators, educators, researchers and policymakers.