European independent music sector launches IMPALA Covid-19 Task Force

20 March 2020 - Press release

 

 

IMPALA, the European independent music companies association, has set up a Covid-19 Task Force to help address the effects of the current crisis on the independent sector in Europe. 

To promote a co-ordinated approach across Europe, the Task Force will publish next week a package of recommended measures at national, European and sector level. The plan is being designed to ensure that the music ecosystem is shielded from long term harm and to promote independent music.

IMPALA's Task Force will also hold weekly calls to monitor action taken by the European institutions and governments across Europe, as well as sector initiatives. It will also establish an inventory to keep members informed and promote best practices across the continent. National associations in Europe will be able to work with the Task Force to help devise national strategies with governments and key sector players, as well as take advantage of European initiatives that are available. 

Helen Smith, Executive Chair of IMPALA commented: "We fully support the public health measures that are being put in place. Governments are, however, reacting at different speeds and some are leaving too many decisions to businesses. This is causing unnecessary confusion and hardship."

Francesca Trainini, Chair of IMPALA, Vice-President of Italian association PMI, and Chair of IMPALA's Covid-19 Task Force added: "In times of crisis, smaller actors are the most exposed. Italy has been the first European country affected, but it's across the continent now. The IMPALA Task Force is working on a call to action on all key levels." 

The Task Force's primary focus is to co-ordinate a safety net across Europe for micro, small and medium sized businesses, artists and self employed workers across the music and other cultural sectors.