No smart glasses at ESNS

09.10.26

Statement from the cultural sector in Groningen

Glasses equipped with cameras and AI make it possible to film and analyse people without their knowledge. We, the Groningen cultural sector, believe that these smart glasses have no place in our buildings or at our events. This technology compromises the privacy and safety of visitors, staff, and artists, and undermines trust in an open and respectful environment.

We advocate a culture in which people can enjoy art, music and other activities without worry. That is why:

  • ⁠we call for this technology not to be normalised;
  • we are including a ban on smart glasses in our house rules;
  • we are asking the government to work towards clear regulations that protect everyone’s privacy and freedom.

Of course, aids used for supportive or medical purposes are not included here.

We warmly invite organisations from other sectors, such as the hospitality industry, sport and education, to endorse 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