The Akademie der Künste is one of Germany's most important cultural institutions, which has repeatedly made its voice heard on many issues of cultural and political life. It brings together leading figures from Germany and abroad whose opinions have considerable impact on the public. Founded in 1696, the Akademie der Künste in Berlin is one of the oldest cultural institutes in Europe. It is an international community of artists and has a current total of 404 members in its six Sections (Visual Arts, Architecture, Music, Literature, Performing Arts, Film and Media Arts). The Akademie der Künste is an exhibition and event location, a meeting place for artists and people interested in the arts, where public debates on art and cultural policy take place.