Belgrade as European Capital of Culture: Conceptual conjunction

The paper treated the question of cultural policy in the context of Belgrade event ‘European Capital of Culture’ (ECOC). In accordance with the current nomination for the title of cultural capital of Europe 2020 there are frequent media and political statements about contribution to the socio-economic development of the city and its positioning as an international cultural center. Also, it is assumed that this project can be a strategic tool in creating a new model of cultural policy of the city, with regard to the proposed objectives which coincide with the primary aims of his cultural development. Taking into account studies that represent the effects of the event ‘European Capital of Culture’ in cities that carried the title in previous years, the paper seeks to highlight the perceived problems and to propose a possible solution in the form of ‘cultural planning’ which represents holistic and flexible understanding of cultural and urban policy. Such an understanding encompasses the sphere of art, economic, political, social, educational and environmental sphere of the city and seeks a sustainable and comprehensive model based on local identity and character of the city, based on the participatory planning.