Culture, cities and identity in Europe : Executive summary

This study was commissioned by EESC from Culture Action Europe and Agenda 21 for Culture. It provides an overview of the factors in EU city development linked to culture and identity through selective qualitative and quantitative analysis of research in the public domain. Culture is examined thematically in terms of its use as a vehicle for economic growth, a tool for reconverting cities, for integration and inclusiveness, and as a pillar of European identity within Europe and beyond. The methodology for the compilation of the report included a literature review of these four themes. A public call was issued to cities and other stakeholders to supply supporting evidence and examples of best practice. These were then analysed by the research team as case studies. The introduction notes the political and economic context at the current time: the rise of nationalist parties antagonistic towards the EU, the pressure on European cities and societies caused by the influx of people fleeing war and deprivation in the Middle-East, Africa and other zones of unrest, and the continuing effects of the 2008 recession. For the first time in a generation the key values of European integration are under serious challenge. It is observed that there is a symbiosis between the inherited culture of the city space and the people who live, work and pass through; a process which influences the identity of each. It is noted that cities are increasing in population both in absolute terms and in relation to rural areas. Within this rise there is also an increase in city districts with multicultural characteristics and with a diversity of inhabitants in stark contrast to smaller towns and villages. The combination of identities within a city (and within its individual neighbourhoods) is crucial to the image and prosperity of the city itself. The inevitable exchange of ideas and cultural attitudes within cities has a strong and positive impact on their creative energy and innovation. A concern is flagged up that public spaces essential to this exchange are under threat from a combination of commercial and security pressures