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Clubs in Saarland: State covers GEMA costs for events!
From 2026, Saarland will cover GEMA costs for non-profit associations for events without admission, announces Prime Minister Rehlinger.
Clubs in Saarland: State covers GEMA costs for events!
Would you like to know what the GEMA fees are for clubs in Saarland? At many events where music is played, the costs for GEMA can quickly skyrocket. Saarland now has a solution ready. As part of a new regulation, the state will cover the GEMA costs for non-profit associations that work primarily on a voluntary basis under certain conditions. Prime Minister Anke Rehlinger (SPD) announced this good news at the New Year's reception in the Saarlandhalle.
But what does that mean specifically? Loud Deutschlandfunk culture The clubs can now organize up to four events per year for which the GEMA fees are not charged. However, these events may not charge an entrance fee and must take place in an area of no more than 500 square meters. Another important point is that music should not be the focus - in other words: concerts are excluded.
Framework agreement and requirements
The state government made it possible to cover the costs through a framework agreement with GEMA. This step was initiated in negotiations that began over two years ago, reports S.R. The regulation is specifically intended for organizations that pursue non-profit, charitable or church purposes and that work on a voluntary basis. Another advantage: Clubs can easily register the events via a GEMA online portal.
Financially, this initiative is impressive. For the years 2026 and 2027, 500,000 euros are earmarked in the budgets to enable this cost assumption. In addition, the Ministry of the Interior provides funds for associations that already have their own GEMA contracts. Interior Minister Reinhold Jost (SPD) emphasizes the importance of music in club life and its promotion.
Criticism and alternative regulations
However, some voices are critical. The Association of Saarland Music Associations and the Saarland Choir Association express concerns because many of their events charge admission - and therefore the support is not effective. There is a separate regulation for choirs that already covers the costs through the choir association. The Association of Music Associations is also working to develop a flat-rate agreement for discounts from GEMA.
Imagine the possibilities: For smaller events that strengthen a sense of community and take place without commercial activity, this regulation represents a welcome relief. The time emphasizes that assuming the GEMA costs is a step in the right direction. However, it remains to be seen whether these innovations will be sufficient to do justice to the various players in Saarland's music and club life.
How will the situation develop further? The excitement surrounding the new assumption of costs shows that the importance of music and community is very important in our society. It is to be hoped that the projects will also support smaller events that promote togetherness.