There is a nearly six-fold increase in the chance of protecting societies from democratic backsliding when strong civil resistance campaigns are involved. This striking finding from the University of Texas at Dallas and Johns Hopkins University: That social movements and resistance campaigns can increase the likelihood of protecting democracy to 51.7 percent from 7.5 percent—should compel funders to action, especially in this moment of rising authoritarianism around the world, accordning to Alliance
Across the globe, democratic institutions are under mounting pressure. Rising authoritarianism, political polarization, and attacks on civil society demand more than traditional philanthropic approaches. Funders are increasingly called upon to move beyond transactional giving and to cultivate trust-based, long-term partnerships with movements defending democratic norms. Within this landscape, the arts and culture sector occupies a central, yet often overlooked, role.
Historically, philanthropic funding has been short-term, project-specific, and top-down, with priorities set by donors rather than communities. While this approach has supported important initiatives, the changing political environment calls for more flexible, responsive models. Funders must provide sustained resources to grassroots organizations, listening closely to the realities faced by those under pressure. Artists and cultural organizations, in particular, are uniquely positioned to strengthen democratic resilience.
Artistic freedom, the right to create, distribute, and access art without censorship or coercion, is widely recognized as a pillar of democratic societies. UNESCO notes that artistic freedom underpins social cohesion, civic engagement, and pluralism, providing space for critical debate, alternative narratives, and community dialogue. When governments, populist movements, or other actors suppress creative expression, they are not merely limiting culture; they are undermining democracy itself.
The arts offer a vital platform for dissent, imagination, and hope. From visual arts to poetry, music, and festival curation, creative expression has historically challenged authoritarian power and provided space for public reflection. In contexts ranging from Ethiopia to Morocco and Russia, artists face persecution for questioning official narratives.
Protecting artists and cultural institutions is, therefore, an essential component of defending democracy. Philanthropy can play a critical role by providing flexible, multi-year funding that allows artists and organizations to operate independently of political pressures. This includes supporting emergency interventions, legal aid, safe relocation, and collaborative projects that amplify marginalized voices. Beyond financial support, monitoring and documenting violations against artists are essential for advocacy, intervention, and global solidarity. Technology-enabled platforms can connect affected artists, record abuses, and inform timely responses.
Investing in the arts is a strategic investment in civic resilience. By supporting creative expression, funders help communities sustain hope, envision alternative futures, and hold those in power accountable. Artists serve often as both symbols and agents of democratic resistance, and their protection strengthens society’s capacity to confront oppression.
As threats to democracy intensify, philanthropy cannot afford to overlook the arts and culture sector. Creative expression is a cornerstone of justice, accountability, and pluralism. Supporting artists and cultural institutions ensures that democratic movements remain vibrant, adaptive, and resilient. In defending the freedom to imagine, create, and challenge, philanthropy becomes an active participant in the global effort to protect open societies.
