The Malta Biennale has pushed back against calls for a review of its second edition, accusing the Malta Entertainment Industry and Arts Association (MEIA) of consistently attacking the festival while failing to acknowledge its achievements.In a strongly worded statement titled “Facts Contradict MEIA”, the Malta Biennale responded to concerns raised by the arts lobby, which had called for an investigation into alleged outstanding payments, contractual issues and communication difficulties linked to the event.MEIA had argued that a transparent review was needed before moving forward with future editions and questioned the recent establishment of the Malta Biennale Foundation.However, the Biennale said MEIA has developed a pattern of publicly criticising the event.“MEIA has never found anything positive to say about the Malta Biennale,” organisers said, accusing the association of repeatedly attempting to tarnish the festival through claims that are “never substantiated”.The Biennale defended this year’s edition, saying it had built on the success of its 2024 debut and attracted growing international interest from artists, curators and pavilion organisers from around the world.According to organisers, the number of applications received increased significantly compared to the first edition, while attendance figures were also higher, although no specific visitor numbers were provided.The festival also pointed to growing international recognition, noting that it remains the only biennale among approximately 350 worldwide to receive UNESCO patronage.The dispute comes after MEIA said it had repeatedly attempted to engage with the Biennale’s leadership over concerns raised by members of the cultural sector, claiming its efforts had largely gone unanswered.While rejecting many of MEIA’s criticisms, the Malta Biennale said it remains open to constructive feedback and welcomes scrutiny from oversight bodies.With the next edition already set for 2028 and a new foundation now in place to secure the event’s future, the disagreement highlights growing tensions between organisers and sections of Malta’s arts community over the direction and management of one of the country’s largest cultural projects.What do you make of this issue?•