Culture strengthens democracy and social cohesion in rural areas – long-term impact requires reliable funding

Culture is a crucial factor for the future of rural regions. Researchers at BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg have, for the first time, comprehensively demonstrated how cultural networks promote social participation, drive regional development and strengthen democratic cohesion. At the same time, the study makes it clear that sustainable impact can only be achieved where long-term commitment is matched by reliable funding structures.

With the successful completion of the research project LANDKULTUREN: Participation – Future (LaKuTeZu), the Department of Urban Planning at the Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg (BTU), led by Prof. Dr Nina Gribat, presents new findings on the significance of culture in rural areas undergoing transformation. The three-year research project in the Oder-Spree district, funded by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Home Affairs (BMLEH), shows that cultural actors do far more than simply provide cultural activities: They create meeting places, promote social participation, stimulate local engagement and strengthen their regions’ resilience to social change.

The study thus highlights the social relevance of cultural infrastructure. In rural areas in particular, cultural actors are increasingly taking on roles that are of central importance for community cohesion and for shaping regional prospects for the future. At the same time, the research identifies a crucial conflict of objectives: trust, cooperation and local networks develop over many years. However, many funding programmes are designed for short project durations. The findings suggest that cultural networks can only realise their social potential in the long term if funding structures enable long-term development.

“Our case studies reveal two distinct but equally effective models of cultural practice in rural areas,” explains Prof. Dr Nina Gribat, Head of the Urban Planning Department. “Whether it’s temporary cultural offerings in villages or permanently established cultural venues – what matters most are stable networks, long-term prospects and strong local roots. Only in this way can culture strengthen social participation and contribute to the sustainable development of rural areas.”