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This article is an approach to the perspective defended and practised by sociologist José Vidal-Beneyto on cultural policies, which is based on his conception of culture as resistance, solidarity, diversity, participation and a tool for the transformation of the world. Equal parts thinker and man of action, his facet as an analyst and sociologist of culture occupies a preponderant place among the multiple dimensions that define him, to which must be added his extensive institutional experience in the cultural field, especially in the European sphere. These pages begin with a review of the concepts and reflections that Vidal-Beneyto developed over more than three decades on the cultural question and, specifically, on cultural policies. This is followed by an overview of the main initiatives and projects on the subject that he was involved in at the Council of Europe, the European Commission and UNESCO, among other EU and international bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]