Internation comparison of cultural policiesgy

Abstract

Analysis of EU statistics on cultural policies between 2004 and 2022 with 20 self-generated graphs. First, relational data such as the share of cultural expenditure in GDP and public budgets are discussed, then data expressed in absolute monetary terms. The perspective is at country level, distinguishing between central and local (municipal) policies. There is a particular focus on the systemic characteristics of the post-communist EU Member States. What these data reveal and how to deal with results that require explanation. Complementing and contrasting with the macro-statistical approach, a tool (the Cultural Policy Barometer) is presented for evaluating cultural policies, their strengths and weaknesses. The description of the WJLF lecture held online on 4 March 2025.