Milano's cultural challenges: spaces, content, networks, people, democracy

Bertram Niessen outlines five cultural obstacles that Milan must navigate in the aftermath of the pandemic. Following the changes brought by Expo 2015 and new governance, the city is now embroiled in a divisive discourse between 'optimists' and 'extractivists.' The initial challenge pertains to space, as the demand for accessible cultural venues shifts due to remote work and tourism. Next is content, which necessitates funding for research and fostering connections among its 39 universities and cultural entities. The third hurdle involves enhancing networks with 133 municipalities and other Italian cities. The fourth challenge concerns people, as rising living expenses exacerbate instability in cultural jobs. Lastly, cultural democracy is at risk, as inequality may bar many from accessing cultural services. This analysis is derived from cheFare's 'laGuida: ilContemporaneo' initiative, backed by Fondazione Cariplo.