The Tropenmuseum, Tropentheater and the Royal Tropical Institute Library are threatened by funding termination on culture. As of January 1, 2013 the cultural departments of the Royal Tropical Institute will no longer receive funding from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Royal Tropical Institute (KIT) received a letter from the Ministry on Tuesday, October 11. The letter implied that the Tropenmuseum, the Tropentheatre and the Department Information & Library Services will not get public funding in future. KIT  had discussed future funding with the Ministry to ensure continuation of its mission. The letter came unexpectedly and the ministry has given no explanation and muted indications on  how to proceed further.

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.

KIT is considering the steps to be taken and will consult with the Ministry. Meanwhile, they will just continue to work. If you have questions about this issue, contact Corporate Communication, Hospitality & Facilities: communication[at]kit.nl

Voice your support for the Royal Tropical Institute here.

Comments from Supporters of Tropenmuseum

Jack Jeswiet, 01 November 2011 It is a travesty indeed to dissolve the Tropenmuseum. Doing so is to eliminate part of the history of the Netherlands. Does this really need to be done by the beancounters, yet again. The museum is a valuable archive and needs to be kept alive. Hanna, 19 October 2011 Kära Tropenmuseum, we are many who want to offer our support after this shocking last saving scheme from the government. Many comments here have touched identity-making, Tropenmuseum is clearly a significant resource in Dutch society. Tropenmuseum is unique. Also on an international scale your work is recognised. Source: Royal Tropical Institute threatened by funding termination on culture  Image courtesy of  Wikipedia