An article and appeal from IFEA Europe (International Festivals and Events Association Europe) highlights current problems with visas for performers and cultural operators and requests festival organisers to share their experiences.

VISA ISSUES GROWING CONCERN
By Jeroen Mourik, Executive IFEA Europe

During a recent international meeting of festival professionals in Chalon (France), I was horrified to learn the story how Artur Gukhasyan (director Highfest) ended up in jail in some country in Africa, when he was invited to speak at a conference.

They kept the poor fellow waiting in a prison until his booked flight returned to Europe. The reason: problems with his VISA. Living in Yerevan (Armenia), Arthur often has to travel all the way to Moscow to apply for a visa, as many countries do not have an embassy in Armenia.

Most European festivals can relate to the issues, risks and responsibilities when inviting artists from certain (African) countries.

More and more festivals and events are faced with the refusal of artists trying to enter their country to perform at their festival. A recent article in the British Independent Newspaper underlines the growing concern in our industry.

I highly recommend you to read the article: African musicians refused entry to Britain (by Arifa Akbar)

IFEA Europe is interested to hear your stories about VISA issues. Please share them with your international colleagues at our new Forum at: IFEA Forum