The Azores Regional Programme 2021-2027 outlines four strategic objectives aimed at fostering social cohesion, digital and ecological advancement, transparent governance, and global recognition of the Azores. These objectives align with the overarching goals of the European Union, promoting integrated social, economic, and environmental development, particularly in areas with low population density. The Programme emphasises the importance of inclusivity and sustainability, ensuring that investments contribute positively to local communities and adhere to European quality standards.
The Programme places significant emphasis on the protection, development, and promotion of cultural heritage and tourism. Investments in cultural initiatives will follow best practices established by the European principles for interventions impacting cultural heritage, ensuring that projects are sustainable and beneficial to local populations. Additionally, the focus on tourism aims to transition towards more ecological and digital practices, reducing seasonal dependency and enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Moreover, the Programme seeks to engage local communities in cultural and tourism initiatives, making offerings more accessible and relevant to both national and international trends. By integrating cultural heritage into the broader economic framework, the Programme aims to enhance the region’s identity while promoting sustainable practices. This approach not only preserves the unique cultural assets of the Azores but also contributes to the overall goal of achieving a high employment rate, aligning with the European Social Rights Pillar and the National Reform Plan.
This Programme is part of a broader constellation of policies developed for regions, part of the programme Portugal 2030. The plan has not been specifically designed with the aim to devolve policies for culture and give more responsibility to the regions, however, it makes relevant references and thus has been included in this library collection for reasons of completeness.
