Recently, we conducted research on the multiplier effects and pay-off effects in the cultural and creative sector on behalf of the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science.
Economic effects
The cultural and creative sector accounts for 4.1% – 4.5% of employment in the Netherlands, equivalent to 330,000 to 368,000 jobs. In absolute terms, the contribution of culture and media to the GDP increased from €23.9 to €26.5 billion between 2015 and 2018. This represents 2.5% to 3.5% of the total in the Netherlands. There are also direct and indirect economic effects, including impacts on the broader value chain, as a driver of innovation and productivity, and effects on the living environment.
Health effects
Cultural interventions have demonstrable positive effects on various health aspects. These interventions result in increased quality of life and reduced pain, stress, and anxiety for participants. Moreover, research suggests that the use of cultural interventions could even be cost-effective, with potential savings of over €100 million.
Effects of design research
It was challenging to conduct a sound economic effects analysis for design research in this study. However, 'insiders' indicate that the use of design research should lead to shortened lead times, innovative and higher-quality solutions, greater support, and socially desirable outcomes. The main direct effect is obtaining new insights into the issues under review and identifying (innovative) solution directions. For now, we mainly have to rely on anecdotal examples and qualitative evidence.
Read the relevant Parliamentary letter
here.
