Special Issue

Local Governments and Cultural Policy under Multi-Level Governance: Education, Environment, and Rule of Law Perspectives

Special Issue Overview :
In an increasingly interconnected and complex policy environment, local governments play a pivotal role in shaping and implementing cultural policy within multi-level governance frameworks. From education and environmental sustainability to upholding the rule of law, cultural governance is no longer confined to national boundaries or traditional sectors. Instead, it has become an evolving field that integrates local identity, global challenges, and intergovernmental cooperation.

This special issue of Lex localis – Journal of Local Self-Government seeks to explore the dynamic interplay between local governments and cultural policy in the context of multi-level governance. It aims to highlight how local cultural initiatives respond to global goals such as sustainable development, civic participation, inclusive education, and legal pluralism.

We welcome conceptual and empirical contributions that analyze the mechanisms, challenges, and innovations in cultural governance, with a special focus on education, environment, and the rule of law.

Guest editors:

Prof. Maria Mazzuca

Prof. Lawyer Renato Rolli

Topics of Interest (include but are not limited to):
Local governments and their role in promoting cultural education and lifelong learning

Governance of cultural heritage and environmental sustainability

Cultural policies in response to climate change and ecological challenges

Decentralization and its impact on cultural diversity and local autonomy

Cultural governance and digital transformation at the municipal level

The role of local governments in safeguarding multilingualism and minority rights

Cultural policy and legal frameworks: compliance, conflict, and innovation

Intergovernmental cooperation in cultural affairs across local-national-global levels

Community participation and local democracy in shaping cultural identity

Local-level implementation of UNESCO or EU cultural guidelines

Special issues – frequently asked questions (FAQs):

1. Who can submit to this special issue?
Researchers, scholars, policymakers, practitioners, and students with a focus on local governance, cultural policy, legal studies, public administration, education, environmental policy, and related fields are welcome to submit.

2. What types of submissions are accepted?
We accept both theoretical and empirical research articles, as well as case studies, comparative analyses, and policy-oriented papers that offer new insights into cultural governance within multi-level structures.

3. What is the expected length of the manuscript?
Manuscripts should typically range from 6,000 to 8,000 words, including references, tables, and figures. Longer papers may be accepted if their scope justifies the length.

4. Is there an Article Processing Charge (APC)?
Yes, standard publication fees apply to all accepted articles in this special issue. Lex localis follows a regular APC policy for publishing, and authors are expected to cover these costs upon acceptance. For detailed information regarding the applicable charges, payment procedures, and possible eligibility for discounts, please refer to the APC policy available on the journal’s official website: https://lex-localis.org/index.php/LexLocalis/about

5. What is the timeline for submission and publication?

  • Abstract submission deadline: August 30, 2025

  • Full paper submission deadline: October 31, 2025

  • Peer review and revisions: November–December 2025

  • Publication of special issue: Before 2026

6. How should I submit my manuscript?
Please submit your manuscript through the Lex localis online submission platform and select “Special Issue – Cultural Policy and Local Governance” during the submission process.

7. Will the special issue be indexed?
Yes. Lex localis is indexed in leading databases, including Scopus, Web of Science (ESCI), and others, ensuring high visibility and accessibility of your work.

8. What is the peer review process?
All submissions undergo a double-blind peer review process involving at least two external reviewers and oversight by the guest editorial team.

9. Can I co-author with scholars from other disciplines or countries?
Absolutely. Interdisciplinary and international collaborations are encouraged and align with the global and multi-level focus of this special issue.

10. Who should I contact for more information?
For inquiries related to the scope, relevance, or submission guidelines, please contact the guest editors at: