Delving into the landscape of cultural policies in Europe, this insightful publication offers a comprehensive analysis of the participatory governance of cultural heritage. Through the analysis of the available bibliography and document analysis, especially legislation, it revisits a comparative approach to two emblematic initiatives – the Project Structure that would create the Portuguese Museum Network (RPM) in 2000 and the Museums in the Future Project Group, created in 2019. It provides valuable insights into the typologies, uses, and perceptions within the European cultural policy framework.
The document also evaluates the impact of the NextGenerationEU/Plano de Recuperação e Resiliência (PRR) on cultural policies in Portugal, shedding light on the central policies and those specifically targeted at museums. The analysis is underpinned by a thorough review of the literature on cultural policies, with a specific focus on museums in the Portuguese context. It emphasises the significance of strategic thinking and funding in shaping public policies for museums, highlighting the long-term scope of participatory processes in policy formulation.
Furthermore, the publication delves into the debate between cultural democratisation and cultural democracy, offering diverse perspectives on the democratisation of culture and the associated historical context. It also discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on planned cultural policies, emphasising the need for continuity in implementing strategic plans and instruments.
Overall, this document serves as a valuable resource for professionals and enthusiasts in the field of European Heritage, offering a comprehensive and insightful analysis of cultural policies in Portugal and their broader implications within the European context.
