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The Venice Biennale is reopening Russia’s pavilion for the first time since 2022 amid protests and a mass jury resignation over entries from states facing ICC charges. The international jury has resigned, and the festival is facing scrutiny from the EU and Italy as debates over artistic neutrality and politics intensify.
The 61st Venice Biennale has opened with protests, strikes and the international jury's resignation over the organisers' decision to allow Russia and Israel to participate. Dozens of pavilions have closed temporarily, the jury has quit, and visitors will vote for awards after organisers cancelled jury prizes.
The Venice Biennale has been marked by ongoing protests and geopolitical controversy. Pussy Riot and Femen have disrupted the Russian pavilion, while EU funding concerns and sanctions scrutiny persist. The event, with 99 participating nations, continues despite tensions surrounding Russia’s return and Israel’s status, and organizers have postponed the awards ceremony.