How do we define effective public involvement in cultural decision making

Discussion Paper

Author

Professor Leila Jancovich (University of Leeds)

Dr Lucrezia Gigante (Culture Commons)

Dr Claire Burnill-Maier (Culture Commons)

Editor

Trevor MacFarlane (Culture Commons)

Description

This discussion paper, co-produced with colleagues at the University of Leeds, investigates how public involvement in cultural decision-making can strengthen democracy, accountability and legitimacy across the UK’s creative, cultural and heritage sectors. It analyses a range of participatory mechanisms—from public value frameworks and co-production to citizens’ assemblies, participatory budgeting and community asset transfers—highlighting their benefits, challenges and policy implications. The paper argues for moving beyond one-size-fits-all models to locally relevant approaches that empower citizens, foster trust, and embed cultural rights within devolved governance structures.

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

August 2024