Over the last decades, increasing concerns around immigration, national identity and economic instability have contributed to the re-emergence and fast growth of far-right movements globally. According to an analysis by PEW Research Centre, 'across Europe, populists – especially those on the ideological right – have been winning larger shares of the vote in recent legislative elections'(1). Countries like Italy and Sweden are currently ruled by democratically appointed far-right governments, whilst many other European regions (France, Hungary, Poland, Germany, Spain and Finland amongst others) are seeing extremist formations rapidly growing in popularity and parliamentary representation. As explained by the independent and nonpartisan organisation Council on Foreign Relations, 'one of the most significant implications of the far-right surge in Europe has been its normalisation in contemporary politics.'(2)

 

In the boundary between Europe and Asia, Vladimir Putin has marginalised and repressed any form of opposition since his rise to power over twenty years ago, gradually establishing a dictatorial regime in Russia. Under his ruling civil liberties have been increasingly suppressed and the democratic institutions have been steadily weakened. Across the sea, Donald Trump is back in office and planning to ‘Make America Great Again’ by building a physical wall along the US-Mexico border and, in India, violence against religious minorities is currently fostered and endorsed by the ruling government of Narendra Modi.

 

These examples reflect broader global trends with rising nationalism and anti-democratic sentiments challenging established political norms, institutions and social harmony.​​​ As noted by UNESCO's Framework for Arts and Education 'in a context of rising inequalities, armed conflict, disinformation, misinformation, hate speech, racism, xenophobia, and other forms of discrimination that fuel social divisions and hamper sustainable development, it is necessary to strengthen efforts to reimagine and shape a peaceful, just, and sustainable future for all.'(3) In the same document, the leading international organisation identifies that 'culture is at the heart of what makes us human, and provides the foundation of our values, choices and relationships with one another and with nature, endowing us with critical thinking, a sense of identity, and the ability to respect and embrace otherness.'(3) Furthermore, in their research Culture and Democracy:The evidence, the European Union reclaims ''the concrete link between culture and democracy' and states that 'citizens who participate in cultural activities are much more likely to engage in civic and democratic life.'(4)

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In this context of extremism and global polarisation, it is urgent and our duty to use the power of our artistic language as a tool to generate counter acting narratives that challenge hate and segregation, to instigate critical thinking and to help nurture empathy and cohesion amongst our local communities. By fostering cooperation and inclusion through artistic co-creation, is this project’s ambition to raise awareness of the current societal climate and inspire change.

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Sources of information:

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1. PEW Research Centre: 'Populists in Europe – especially those on the right – have increased their vote shares in recent elections'

2. Council on Foreign Relations: 'How Far-Right Election Gains Are Changing Europe'

3. UNESCO: Framework for Arts and Education

4. ​European Union: Culture and democracy, the evidence. How citizens’ participation in cultural activities enhances civic engagement, democracy and social cohesion : lessons from international research

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As recipients of the political and social climate described above, ACCA feels that this project will greatly benefit the groups engaged in it from being involved in the activity as:

 

• Artistic Innovation and Entertainment: Offers unique, engaging performances that foster connection and joy.

• Learning: Promotes education and cultural awareness through exposure to diverse narratives and concepts, from a female perspective. Students taking formal courses will gain sector specific skills to strengthen their portfolios and employability upon graduation. 

• Health and Wellbeing: Enhances mental health in participants and audiences by fostering creativity and building social connections.

• Community Cohesion: Strengthens community ties by celebrating inclusivity and shared cultural experiences.

 

With arts funding increasingly scarce, supporting this project is essential to sustaining ACCA Dance Theatre's operations and ensuring its continued contribution to cultural and social vitality.

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We will know we’ve achieved our goals through a robust process of ongoing evaluation and feedback, ensuring the project is impactful and meets its aims:

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• Throughout the creative process, we will document key moments with video and photos, sharing these regularly with participants and partners. This will capture the development of the work and ensure transparency while providing valuable content for future reflection and outreach.

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• During the sharing, we will actively collect feedback from audiences through discussions, and written feedback forms. This will allow us to gauge audience reactions, understanding how the themes of the work resonate and measuring emotional and intellectual engagement.

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• We will hold regular meetings and check-ins with the artistic team, producer, and community participants throughout the project. These discussions will allow us to adapt the project as needed, ensuring that we remain on track to meet our objectives and address any challenges that arise.

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• We will collect data on key metrics, such as social media engagement, participation numbers, and EDI information allowing us to track the reach and impact of the project in real time.

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• Built into the project’s schedule, we will have dedicated time for reflection and evaluation with our partners. This will provide space to discuss what went well, identify areas for improvement, and consider next steps for future projects.