Aargau cuts cultural funding ties with Zurich and Lucerne after years of frustration
Aargau has announced plans to end its long-standing cultural funding agreement with Zurich and Lucerne. The decision follows years of financial contributions and growing dissatisfaction with the current culture. The officials argue the existing deal no longer reflects the canton’s evolving cultural needs.
Since 2010, Aargau has paid Zurich CHF 4.3 million annually and Lucerne CHF 0.9 million to support cultural institutions. These payments were part of a broader tax-sharing agreement, but the canton now views the arrangement as unfair. The government council claims the current system lacks transparency and gives paying cantons no real influence over how funds are used.
The agreement also fails to account for Aargau’s own cultural developments. While the canton remains committed to supporting institutions outside its borders, it wants more control over contributions. Instead of the existing framework, Aargau plans to negotiate separate deals with Zurich and Lucerne, proposing fixed annual payments.
Lucerne’s Director of Culture expects Aargau to continue voluntary contributions from 2028, despite the termination. However, Aargau insists on individual solutions tailored to its priorities. The canton will formally exit the agreement by the end of 2025, aligning with the conclusion of the current funding period.
The termination takes effect in 2027, marking the end of a decades-long funding partnership. Aargau will now pursue bilateral agreements, aiming for greater flexibility in its cultural investments. The move signals a shift in how the canton allocates resources to regional cultural projects.
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