Venice Biennale jury removes Russia from prize competition but keeps its participation status unchanged

Ivanna Kostina - 23 April, 23:11

Stock Photo: Getty Images

Russia and Israel have been excluded from the competition for the Golden and Silver Lions at the Venice Biennale international art exhibition.

Source: European Pravda, citing Adnkronos, an Italian news agency

Details: The jury ruled that countries whose leaders are currently accused by the International Criminal Court of crimes against humanity would be excluded from consideration for the main prizes, which are due to be awarded on 9 May.

The statement noted that the jury recognises "its responsibility for the Biennale's historic role as a platform linking art with the pressing issues of the contemporary world".

Meanwhile, the jury does not intervene in matters concerning the presence of national pavilions and limits its remit to awarding the main prizes, including the Golden Lion.

Background:

Ukraine asked Italy not to issue visas to Russian participants in the Venice Biennale.
In total, over 20 European countries have called for Russia to be barred from participating in the Venice Biennale.
In mid-March, the European Commission said it would suspend a €2 million grant awarded to the Biennale Foundation if Russia took part in the 2026 exhibition. On 23 April, it emerged that the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) had sent a letter to the Biennale di Venezia foundation expressing its intention to terminate the grant.
Ukraine has urged the organisers of the Venice Biennale to reconsider their decision regarding Russia's participation and to uphold the principled stance shown in 2022-2024.

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