Contributions to a future law on cultural rights in Catalonia: challenges and reflections from the artistic, cultural and creative sectors

This article examines and critically analyses the contributions of a diverse group of cultural actors who participated in focus group sessions organised as part of the public consultation held between 2022 and 2023 by the Catalan government for the development of a future Cultural Rights Law in Catalonia. This study problematises the four key dimensions that were discussed in the focus group sessions. First, it analyses access to culture, highlighting the barriers and facilitators. Second, it explores cultural participation, addressing the complexities of promoting active audiences, individual and collective creation and participation in cultural governance. Third, it investigates the intersectionality of gender in cultural practices, underscoring the challenges faced by women and gender minorities. Finally, it discusses the professionalisation of culture, pointing out the precarious working conditions in the sector. The article provides evidence of the integration of cultural rights into policies, reflecting on the socio-political contexts that shape them.