Royal Tropical Institute threatened by funding termination on culture

On Wednesday, October 12 the TV show EenVandaag announced that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs intends to terminate the funding of the cultural pillar of the Royal Tropical Institute (KIT) by January 1, 2013.

KIT received a letter from the Ministry on Tuesday, October 11.

The letter implies that the Tropenmuseum, the Tropentheatre and the Department Information & Library Services will not get public funding in future.

For some time now, especially because of recent budget cuts, KIT discusses about this with the Ministry to ensure continuation for executing its mission. The letter therefore comes unexpectedly, the ministry gives no explanation and hardly an opening how to proceed further.

Coherent approach strength of KIT
The trimming of the cultural pillar of the Royal Tropical Institute affects the functionality of the other pillars – i.e. sustainable development, health and poverty alleviation. KIT is an inextricable whole as we have shown during the past 100 years by implementing lots of successful projects and activities. Development cooperation, cultural exchange, sustainable development, poverty alleviation and knowledge transfer are mutually reinforcing components for KIT.

We are considering the steps to be taken and will consult with the Ministry. Meanwhile, we just continue our work.

If you have questions about this issue, please contact Corporate Communication, Hospitality&Facilities, T (020) 568 85 14 / E communication@kit.nl

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