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SNP quango gave £900,000 to ‘Palestine-row’ arts group
Arika, a Scottish arts organisation, has received £911,950 in public funding from Creative Scotland for 2025 to 2028. It is organising a five-day Palestine-themed programme at Glasgow’s Tramway venue, prompting criticism over the event’s title and the use of public money.
The event, called “Episode 12: From the Rivers to the Sea”, will discuss Palestine, colonialism and social justice, including what organisers describe as “genocide” in Gaza. Critics say the title echoes a slogan calling for Israel’s destruction; Creative Scotland and the Scottish Government say they do not control the programming choices of funded organisations, while Glasgow Life says it is politically neutral.
In short
- Arika received £911,950 in Creative Scotland funding.
- Its Glasgow programme focuses on Palestine and colonialism.
- Critics challenge the event title and public funding.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Public funding can support arts organisations in exploring contested political issues, including Palestinian experiences, colonialism and the war in Gaza. Arika and its supporters may argue that the programme’s title and content are part of artistic and political expression, and that funders should protect organisations’ independence rather than dictate their views.
The case against
Public bodies should be careful that grants and publicly owned venues do not appear to endorse language that many people understand as rejecting Israel’s continued existence. Critics may argue that the title risks alienating Jewish people and obscuring legitimate debate, and that funders should scrutinise how public support is used while respecting artistic freedom.