Chapter of a report that presents a case study of the City of Heerlen, Netherlands, a shrinking city that identifies cultural policy as an important factor in vitalising the city. Heerlen has made significant investments into culture and is experiencing a “cultural spring”. This promotes a positive climate …

This thesis was written for the purpose of Demography Prize for young scientist 2008/2009: “How can opportunities for Young people be activated in regions with shrinking population” by Institute for demographic future (idz), Oberursel, Germany.In this thesis one possible answer to the question: “How …