United for European Cinema

05 September 2025

Why screen.brussels is committed to European cinema

In an increasingly unstable political and economic climate, both in Europe and worldwide, screen.brussels – the audiovisual fund of the Brussels-Capital Region – firmly believes that supporting European cinema is more than a cultural choice: it is a strategic investment. As the biggest revenue source and job provider of all European media sectors, the audiovisual sector delivers measurable economic impact while playing a crucial role in the democratic and cultural vitality of our continent.

Cinema as a driver of culture and identity

Every year, more than 2,300 films are produced in Europe, in multiple languages, showcasing the richness of our cultural heritage. Over 24% of these are international co-productions, accounting for 30% share of Eu theatrical releases, and attracting 50% of non-national audiences. Moreover, almost 40% of European films are also released theatrically in countries other than their main production country, demonstrating how European Cinema builds bridges across borders.

An engine for growth and jobs

With over 1 million jobs in Europe (direct and indirect), film and audiovisual industries are a major economic pillar. Every euro of public funding invested in film generates massive return in the economy – 9,5 € in Brussels e.g. - depending on the territory. In addition, tax incentives and location shooting attract significant foreign investment, driving innovation and boosting local economies. The overall European audiovisual and film industry generates nearly €119 billion each year, and has remained the second largest in the world, accounting for approximately 22% of the sector’s global revenues.

A safeguard for democracy

At a time when authoritarian regimes threaten the founding values of the European Union – freedom, democracy, and human rights – cinema remains a powerful tool for collective storytelling, openness to others and mutual understanding. They reflect our diverse identities, shed light on our debates and help anticipate social change. In this sense, this is more than just an economic sector; it is a cornerstone of cultural democracy.

Impactfull projects

In recent years, screen.brussels has supported a wide range of projects that embody these principles. Fiction films such as BXL, Night Call, Amal, The Blue Caftan, No Dogs or Italians Allowed and Don't worry, i'll be ok have reached broad audiences, including school groups. Series like Roomies, Hacked and The Theory of Y, as well as documentaries including Chosen Family, The Last Jewish Summer, The EUkrainian, Puisque je suis née and She They Us, all demonstrate cinema’s ability to approach complex issues with sensitivity, give a voice to marginalized communities, and build bridges between generations.

A call to action

This is why screen.brussels is calling for coordinated and visible action from all European stakeholders – public authorities, broadcasters, investment funds, and professional organizations – to unite behind one clear message:

Investing in audiovisual creation is the smartest investment of our time. It fuels culture, drives economic growth, creates jobs, and stands as a bold commitment to Europe’s core values: freedom, democracy, and human rights.

You can be part of it

Through this initiative, screen.brussels provides royalty-free tools – banners, labels, taglines, visuals – that everyone can use in their communication. Because this is not just about defending an industry, it is about standing proudly for what it represents: a creative, free, and united Europe.

Use the hashtag #europeancinema to spread this campaign.

Download the Toolkit here

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