Increasing cultural participation has been a central aim for Swedish cultural policy at least since the 1970’s. Historically, this ambition has focused on making arts and culture activities available throughout the country – which is the second least densely populated country in the EU – and on widening audiences in terms of class and educational background. In recent decades, increased emphasis has been placed on other factors, such as gender, functional differences, and immigrant background, as well, but class, education, and especially geography remain central issues in cultural policy, even though issues relating to cultural diversity and multiculturalism have become dominant.
The current centre-right government has emphasized the protection of artists and other professionals in the culture sector against threats and violence, as a part of upholding public safety, as well as safe work environments and freedom of expression. Issues relating to law enforcement have increasingly come into focus in policy discussions in general. Municipalities have, for example, been given increased responsibilities in preventing crimes, something which has also impacted discussions on cultural policy related topics such as city planning and leisure activities for the young.
Comments are closed.