Cultural and Creative Industries in the Western Balkans

Cultural and Creative Industries in the Western Balkans is a book that explores the dynamic and evolving landscape of the cultural policy, cultural and creative industries (CCI) across the region. This book examines the unique positioning of CCIs, their role in preserving cultural expression and content, and their economic impact on these societies, all within the framework of social, political, and economic trends and transformations in the region. Each chapter investigates various themes, including the unique perspective on the Western Balkans (WB), the development of cultural policies, the current state of the CCIs and their economic impact, the challenges specific to each country, and the future prospects of this sector.

Through data-driven insights, the book offers readers an in-depth look at the relationship between creativity and policy, showcasing how the WB region is preserving and developing its CCIs.

Professionals, academics, and policymakers can benefit from the book’s relevant recommendations for strengthening CCI ecosystems in the WB. This shortform book is the first to provide an expert overview of the cultural and creative sectors in the WB and will be valuable reading for researchers and advanced students of the creative industries, global cultural policy, and Eastern Europe more broadly.

Dr. Violeta Simjanovska brings over 25 years of global experience in arts management and cultural policy. Her career, which began in electrical engineering, evolved into managing a music festival and leading a Performing Arts Research Centre as general manager. She has initiated and led numerous international projects, with expertise in Cultural Policy, Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI), and the relationship between Arts and Society.

As a researcher, Dr. Simjanovska has led over 20 international research initiatives and has published more than 50 articles and books on Arts Management, CCI, and arts-related societal issues. Her research contributions have significantly advanced understanding in these fields, driving forward innovative practices in arts management and cultural policy.

Her professional footprint includes more than 30 countries, with key focus areas including cultural policy, CCI, arts management, intercultural competences, and strategic management and leadership. Dr. Simjanovska at the moment works as a Head of the Arts Management Department at Sibelius Academy, University of the Arts Helsinki. She is also a cultural consultant for UNESCO, European Commission and British Council. Her academic contributions extend to institutions like Goldsmiths, University of London, University of Belgrade, the Music Academy in Brno, etc. From 2022 to 2024, she was a member of the Executive Board of ENCATC, Europe’s leading network on cultural management and policy.