BAK survey: Swiss people have a renewed appetite for culture

Two-thirds of the Swiss population are willing to resume cultural visits without further hesitation. This was the finding of a survey conducted on behalf of the Federal Office of Culture (FOC) and the General Secretariat of the Swiss Conference of Cantonal Ministers of Education (GS EDK) in September and October 2022. The survey shows that what was missed most during the Corona crisis in the context of cultural activities were encounters and exchanges.

The willingness to attend a cultural event has increased significantly since the third survey in April 2021. Whereas at that time only 30 percent of respondents were willing to visit cultural institutions or events again "without major reservations," this proportion had doubled by fall 2022. However, 30 percent of respondents continue to express some concerns.

Corona not over yet

Around half of respondents report that they have become accustomed to staying at home and are now less likely to visit cultural institutions than before the Corona crisis. They also express the view that the Corona crisis is not over yet

The uncertainty surrounding the pandemic also continues to affect amateur culture. For example, 18 percent of those who engaged in amateur cultural activities say they have given them up since the crisis. This figure is worrying, since amateur culture makes a contribution to the cohesion of the population that should not be underestimated. It also forms an important basis for professional culture.

Digital cultural offerings are becoming increasingly important. However, these can only supplement, not replace, analog cultural activities, as the survey confirms: 69 percent of respondents still consider local offerings to be indispensable. For a large part of the population, cultural activities are an important part of living together.

The complete results of the survey are available here.