예술인 복지 지원의 쟁점과 입법 및 정책 과제

Abstract

Despite the increasing number of bills in culture and the arts, few studies have been done in cultural policy context to check their validity and feasibility. Based on the investigation of domestic and foreign welfare policy for the artists, this study first reviews debates surrounding the issues raised in ‘Welfare of the Artist Act’ pending in the Committee on Culture, Sports, Tourism, Broadcasting, and Communications, the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea. Analyzing promoting acts for the welfare of other occupations, legislation and policy recommendations will be made to implement the artist welfare policy effectively. From a legislative perspective, debatable issues include delegated legislation with regard to the category of the artists who are beneficiaries of welfare policy, and being against the principle of equitable treatment in comparison to other occupations. In conclusion, to institutionalize ‘Welfare of the Artist Act,’ the study suggests legislation and policy alternatives as follows. First, public purposes of the arts should gain widely accepted approval among all stakeholders. Second, policy priorities should be made for stage actors, dancers, and technical staffs in performing arts, film, video, and broadcasting. However, the proposed act will have to be revised and reflect the results of Artist Survey Report in each discipline conducted with consistent measures. Third, ideally, it is recommended that current ‘Unemployment Insurance Act’ would enact a provision on the beneficiary categories of artists and eligibility to receive unemployment benefits. Fourth, it is urgent to spread the standard contract between artistic workers and employers. Finally, implementing the employment policy in culture and arts sector would contribute to boost the effectiveness of welfare policy for artists.