Redes Culturais e Desenvolvimento Local: a Experiência da Comum

Abstract

In recent years, cooperation, partnership and networks between institutions have increasingly figured in the development dynamics of most branches or sectors of activity. Culture is not an exception to this scenario, though few examples of cultural networks in Portugal can be found. At a regional and local level we can mention the so-called Cultural Programming Networks, of which the COMUM – Cultural Network is a case in point. The present paper evaluates the economic and social benefits derived from the creation of COMUM. In terms of socio-economic development, the results appear positive, particularly with regard to (a) strengthening of the region’s shared identity and collective sense of history, (b) promoting cultural knowledge at the individual level, (c) stimulating habits of community-based social interaction, and (d) creating new markets/clienteles for cultural goods and services. These advances have been achieved mainly through the inter-generational transfer of benefits, and the expanded/diversified use of local cultural infrastructures.