Conference

This track focuses on how increasing the citizens’ sense of belonging to a common cultural area influences the dynamics of a city, especially in neighborhoods and areas not typically associated to the cultural phenomena. The track invites contributions that address (but are not restricted to):

• Assessment methodologies to identify and measure social impacts of the ECoC title
• Participative practices for the management of culture
• Strategies, public policies and experiences for enhancing a participatory culture
• Cultural mediation programmes
• Cultural consumption and sense of belonging  
• Community building through cultural/intercultural experiences.

Culture deeply influences the future of urban services, being an active factor of social cohesion and inclusion, economic development, and transformation acceleration. Contributions that tackle healthcare, education, urban planning, environmental protection, and recreational activities from multiple perspectives are welcomed. They may include but are not limited to:

• Cultural beliefs and practices that influence healthcare, preferences for treatment modalities, and perceptions of health and illness.      
• Cultural diversity in urban areas; inclusive and culturally responsive educational practices.
• Inclusive urban design which takes into account the needs and preferences of diverse cultural communities, including accessibility, safety, and social cohesion; participatory planning processes and collective decision-making.
• Ecological practices and biodiversity conservation in addressing social and cultural leisure activities or recreational facilities.

The European Capital of Culture programme has always addressed the sustainability issue and encouraged eco-practices and environmentally friendly events. This track focuses on how culture can raise awareness and influence behaviour in regards to sustainable economic development, and welcomes papers on circular economy, short supply chains, eco-tourism, shared and distributed leadershipin event management, asa well as any other topics covering the 2030 Agenda.