Glasses fitted with a camera 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 infringes on the privacy and safety of visitors, staff and performers, and undermines trust in an open and respectful environment.
We are committed to a culture in which people can enjoy art, music and other activities without any worries. 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.
Devices used for assistive or medical purposes are, of course, excluded from this.
We warmly invite organisations from other sectors, such as hospitality, sport and education, to endorse this statement.
Groningen, 9 October 2026
Signed by, amongst others:
- Club Guy & Roni
- De Noorderlingen
- Domies Toen
- EM2
- 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 aan de A
- Museum Klooster Ter Apel
- Museum Wierdenland
- NITE
- Noorderlicht
- Noorderzon Festival of Performing Arts & Society
- Noordstaat
- NOORDWOORD
- NP3
- SIGN
- Simplon
- SPOT Groningen
- Stichting Kunst & Cultuur
- Stichting Landgoed Fraeylemaborg
- Stichting Oude Groninger Kerken
- Stichting Tocamaheerd
- Theater de Steeg
- Tumult
- Vera
- Zummerbühne