Theory and Practice of Cultural Heritage Policy

The economic analysis of policies for cultural heritage has referred to the reasons for public intervention and the consequent institutional arrangements in place for the design and implementation of rules that would guarantee the conservation and enhancement of cultural heritage. The analysis of the changes in the last 20 years highlights a trend towards devolution of power to lower levels of government and an increasing role of the private (no profit) sector for the implementation of cultural policies. This trend has been somehow speeded up by the recent economic crisis. This chapter provides a brief overview of these changes. Using a cultural economics approach, it offers some reflections on the impact they have on the conservation and enhancement of cultural heritage.