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The Tracker Culture & Public Policy | Special Issue n°3 : Regional Perspectives | Europe and North America

Whilst cultural heritage has long been a subject of State-level cultural policies in the region, the MONDIACULT 2022 Regional Consultation revealed the increased desire for a more people-oriented approach contributing to social inclusion, dialogue, peace and quality of life. Participants particularly underscored the need to harness the power of culture and heritage in promoting local territories’ cultural identity. Access to and participation in cultural life – particularly of minorities and Indigenous people - is a primary concern raised during the consultation, including the contribution of culture to the Human Development Index. How to promote synergies between cultural heritage and contemporary culture, including the creative industries, was a concern for some stakeholders, as well as approaches to consolidating more coherent approaches to cultural heritage including public authorities, the private sector and civil society, as well as local communities themselves. The vulnerability of cultural heritage to climate change was also highlighted, as well as the need to capitalise on the potential of culture to contribute to climate change resilience and adaptation.
EXISTING REGIONAL POLICY FRAMEWORKS ON CULTURAL HERITAGE
Whilst cultural heritage policy in the European Union is primarily the responsibility of its Member States, the of 2018, guides heritage-related activities at European level. Building on the efforts of the European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018, is sets out a framework in which Europe’s cultural heritage policies are holistic, mainstreamed, multi-stakeholder and evidence-based. It proposes five areas of continued action:
- an inclusive Europe: participation and access for all
- a sustainable Europe: smart solutions for a cohesive and sustainable future
- a resilient Europe: safeguarding endangered heritage
- an innovative Europe: mobilising knowledge and research
- a stronger global partnership: reinforcing international cooperation
(2018)