A role for Cultural Rights in local cultural decision making?

Discussion Paper

Author

Dr Jonathan Vickery (University of Warwick)

Description

This discussion paper argues that culture should be understood and protected as a fundamental human right, essential to individual freedom, dignity and democratic participation. Drawing on international law and cultural rights frameworks, it explores how the UK could embed this principle across governance systems through legislation, funding and education. The paper critiques current policy approaches that treat cultural access as discretionary rather than integral to wellbeing and citizenship. By framing culture as a right, the author suggests, policymakers can move beyond instrumental rationales towards an inclusive vision of cultural democracy. The paper calls for new accountability mechanisms to measure equitable access, and proposes that cultural rights should be embedded into devolution settlements and local outcome frameworks to ensure that every citizen can participate fully in the cultural life of their community.

Published as part of The Future of Cultural Devolution in the UK.

July 2024