COVID-19 support programmes

Since March 2020, GEMA has applied various measures to support its members and customers who have been financially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. In May 2021, GEMA was awarded for its quick and unbureaucratic commitment and effort with the Deutsche Kulturförderpreis, the German Arts Sponsorship Award. In his speech at the 2022 General Assembly, CEO and Chairman Dr. Harald Heker looks back at the various programmes, but also highlighted that GEMA was continuing to campaign for further support measures.

GEMA members have just lived through two years of economic hardship. The relief that live performances can take place to an almost normal extent again was tangible in the course of the General Assembly in many conversations and contributions. The event itself took place by adhering to 3G COVID-19 measures in order to allow for the most carefree personal exchange possible.

“Even though COVID-19 has somewhat faded into the background: Many our members still feel the pain of its consequences”, highlighted CEO and Chairman Dr. Harald Heker in his speech. “GEMA has always been actively involved to cushion the financial impact of the pandemic for its members.” In addition to its own support programmes such as the Schutzschirm Live or the COVID-19 relief funds, GEMA had also distributed financial aids from the federal government to creators and performance venues. Additional support measures were, however, necessary from the politicians’ side in order to make a real new start possible within the cultural sector, Heker added. “The economic situation of many creators will continue to be economically vulnerable in 2022, that is why GEMA is lobbying politicians for additional measures and programmes.“