From the Flemish nationalist Belgian Prime Minister:
I have understandably received many questions from abroad regarding the recent decision of the Flanders Festival Ghent to ban the Munich Philharmonic on the basis of the conductor’s nationality. This decision has rightfully provoked great consternation and has been characterized…
— Bart De Wever (@Bart_DeWever) September 12, 2025
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Full text:
I have understandably received many questions from abroad regarding the recent decision of the Flanders Festival Ghent to ban the Munich Philharmonic on the basis of the conductor’s nationality. This decision has rightfully provoked great consternation and has been characterized as antisemitic. To impose a professional ban on someone solely because of their origin is both reckless and irresponsible. Equally troubling is the unprecedented requirement that artists provide written statements of their political views. This runs directly counter to the very essence of artistic freedom. I deeply regret the festival’s decision, which has inflicted severe damage on the reputation of our country.
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