THE ROLE OF LOCAL CULTURAL INSTITUTIONS FOR LOCAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT. THE CASE-STUDY OF BULGARIA

The increasing role of cultural institutions for sustainable development is associated with initiation and realization of activities related to conservation of natural and cultural heritage. The purpose of this study is to assess the strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats for the future development of local cultural institutions in Bulgaria, in the context of their role in local development, mainly of small settlements. Methods: By applying the dynamics index the trends in cultural institutions in Bulgaria are examined. A survey also has been conducted in order to investigate the components of SWOT analysis, on which base the problems are summarized and specific recommendations are made. Results: The data show divergent trends in the number of individual cultural institutions. Notably, if the number of rural cultural clubs decreases, the trend in the number of their members is increasing, despite the reported demographic crisis in the villages. Conclusions: Only through an integrated approach, including the constitution of cultural institutions in network format may increase the attractiveness of areas for investment and for building a quality living environment while preserving the regional identity. The community club is a unique Bulgarian cultural institution, which takes place especially in the history of Bulgarian society in which it was hoped to mobilize the local community and to enhance local development processes.