How Spotify is erasing the Balkans
A data-driven investigation into cultural exclusion in Europe’s digital ecosystem.
The Crisis in Numbers
Only 0.96% of Showcasing Artists at Major European Festivals in 2025 Came from Southeast Europe
Despite 1565 total artists performing across major European events, Southeast Europe was represented by only 15 performers - underscoring a striking geographical imbalance that persists across Europe’s cultural ecosystem.
The Balkans are home to over 58 million people, yet remain almost entirely absent from Europe’s digital discovery systems. Spotify’s algorithmic architecture has created a feedback loop that sidelines the region both online and on physical stages.
Artists Who Are Disappearing
These artists are not obscure. They are cultural pillars — but Spotify’s discovery model treats entire catalogues as commercially irrelevant.
Fake Streams Help The Big;
Hurt The Small
Artificial streams inflate global superstars. The payout pool shrinks for everyone else — especially small markets.
How Spotify is erasing the Balkans
A data-driven investigation into cultural exclusion in Europe’s digital ecosystem.
The Crisis in Numbers
Only 0.96% of Showcasing Artists at Major European Festivals in 2025 Came from Southeast Europe
Despite 1565 total artists performing across major European events, Southeast Europe was represented by only 15 performers - underscoring a striking geographical imbalance that persists across Europe’s cultural ecosystem.
The Balkans are home to over 58 million people, yet remain almost entirely absent from Europe’s digital discovery systems. Spotify’s algorithmic architecture has created a feedback loop that sidelines the region both online and on physical stages.
Artists Who Are Disappearing
These artists are not obscure. They are cultural pillars — but Spotify’s discovery model treats entire catalogues as commercially irrelevant.
Fake Streams Help The Big; Hurt The Small
Artificial streams inflate global superstars. The payout pool shrinks for everyone else — especially small markets.
Sign the petition now
Support geographical equality in the music industry by giving the Balkans a stage. Donate or sign our petition below. It takes just a few minutes.
Sign the petition now
Support geographical equality in the music industry by giving the Balkans a stage. Donate or sign our petition below. It takes just a few minutes.
Our Supporters
Donate for the cause
Your support helps amplify underrepresented voices and build a fairer, more inclusive music industry across Europe.
Equality in Music Starts Here.
Donate for the cause
Your support helps amplify underrepresented voices and build a fairer, more inclusive music industry across Europe.
Equality in Music Starts Here.