Institutional Aspects of Regional Craftsmanship Based on The Principles of Subsidiarity and Cultural Sustainability

Abstract

In the given research, attention is paid to the institutional background of local crafts as subsidiarity and cultural sustainability, their functions in strengthening the development of local economy and maintaining the cultural heritage of the region. Although the awareness of handicrafts as a cultural and economic resource has been increasing, effective institutional framework combining those postulates has not yet been developed clearly. In order to fill this gap, the research utilized qualitative analysis of the regional documents of an existing policy related to the family- based enterprises of the craft industry, empirical assessment of its evolution and existence in a given territory, as well as a comparison of the international experience. It emerges that governance grounded on subsidiarity promotes local initiative, whereas cultural sustainability will guarantee sustainability of traditional knowledge and competitiveness in the international markets. Findings reflect the significance of grouping family companies, mentorship in the vocations sector and incorporation of craftwork in tourism routes. The lessons provided present the framework of sustainable regional development, and it is proposed that the institutional frameworks based on cultural identity can successfully regulate the safeguarding of the heritage and modernization of an economy.