MONITOR2024 – “Effects of Bodø as European Capital of Culture”

Using Bodø 2024 ECoC as a case study, the main objective of the group is to examine how culture-related investments can promote sustainable development in Arctic cities and regions, thereby making them more attractive places to live and work. The research group aims to develop a comparative approach to studying the socio-economic impacts of ECoCs across different contexts and countries, enabling assessment and potential improvements in evaluation methods for ECoC-related impacts.

The group applies a range of scientific methods that support a so-called “social auditing” approach to evaluation. These include mapping and interviewing key actors and stakeholders, statistical analysis, as well as the use of emerging methods such as agent-based modelling, Q methodology, AI-assisted text analysis, netnography, dashboard visualisations, and geolocation data analysis.