Common issues and characteristics
2.2.
The transversal analysis of the 18 country profiles in CSEE and in Baltic countries summarises general developments, similarities and discrepancies in cultural policy. It outlines current trends and important developments, identifying not only key areas and measures in the field of cultural policy but also loopholes and deficits requiring action at cultural policy level. As the sources of information are mostly based on official documents and the Compendium profiles, the information given cannot ensure an entirely objective, independent perspective. Furthermore, the amount of information available on the individual sub-areas varies from country to country – information gaps are common. However, this does not mean that there are absolutely no measures in a particular area; it is more an indication that this area is not a cultural policy priority at national level. Based on the 18 individual country profiles, the following overview of cultural policy in the selected regions can be given: The development of cultural policy in the countries of Central and South Eastern Europe and of the Baltic states since the demise of the socialist regimes has differed greatly, yet there are also many parallels. The CSEE countries and the Baltic states have striven to establish national identities and to address their socialist/communist pasts in different ways. Since the enlargement of the EU in 2004 and 2007 (when ten out of the 18 countries reviewed joined: Czech Republic, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, Malta, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia 2004, Romania and Bulgaria 2007), the goal of developing and consolidating European, democratic values has been given particular priority; there has been a recognition of the significant role that can be played here by art and culture, and government funding in these areas, as well as cooperation with civil society, private institutions, NGOs and foundations. The official cultural policy programmes in CSEE countries and in the Baltic states comprise goals that reflect international or EU standards and objectives (such as guaranteeing artistic freedom, creating framework conditions for artistic activities, diversity, innovation, equality and participation). However, these programmes are often drafted with a view to promoting closer relations with or integration into the European or international community, and sometimes completely or partially lack accompanying measures and subsequent action. In sum, all cultural policy programmes in the region include the following themes and fields of priority, many of which are common European issues: Cultural heritage The handling and status of cultural heritage of course depends on the respective historical context, and measures concerning this issue differ considerably. Nevertheless, it is always a very high priority in the countries reviewed. There is a broad consensus that it creates and consolidates national identity within the country and acts as a driving force behind the country’s image abroad, thus helping to promote tourism. Objectives and measures mostly have solid legal foundations and receive relatively generous funding – which is above all secure and long-term. Governance The concept of “governance” is gaining a greater foothold in the CSEE and Baltic region, just as it is in Europe as a whole. It is a government strategy, which focuses on strengthening the participation of citizens and democratisation while, to a certain degree, the state withdraws from decision-making processes. Cooperation with civil society, the non-profit sector, publicprivate partnerships and new financing models for culture are all increasing in significance; new cultural policy actors are emerging and creating new scope for cooperation.
85