STATEMENT FROM THE CULTURAL SECTOR IN GRONINGEN
On smart glasses in our buildings and at our events
Glasses equipped with cameras and AI make it possible to film and analyse people without their knowledge. We, the cultural sector in Groningen, believe that these smart glasses have no place in our buildings or at our events.
This technology threatens the privacy and safety of visitors, staff and artists, and undermines trust in an open and respectful environment.
We stand for a cultural environment where people can enjoy art, music and other activities without concern. Therefore:
• we call on people not to normalise this technology;
• we are including a ban on smart glasses in our house rules;
• we call on the government to develop clear regulations that protect everyone’s privacy and freedom.
Devices used for accessibility or medical purposes are, of course, not included in this statement.
We warmly invite organisations from other sectors, such as hospitality, sports and education, to join this statement.
Groningen, 9 October 2026
Signed by, among others:
Club Guy & Roni
De Noorderlingen
Eurosonic Noorderslag
Festival Hongerige Wolf
Forum Groningen
Grand Theatre Groningen
Groninger Archieven
Groninger Museum
Het Houten Huis
Jonge Harten Festival
Kamermuziek Festival Groningen
Kunstbende Groningen
Kunstpunt Groningen
Kunstraad Groningen
Museum Klooster Ter Apel
Museum aan de A
NITE
Noorderlicht
Noorderzon Festival of Performing Arts & Society
Noordstaat
NOORDWOORD
NP3
Simplon
SPOT Groningen
Stichting Kunst & Cultuur
Stichting Landgoed Fraeylemaborg
Theater de Steeg
Tumult
Vera
