Economic Development and Remuneration in Creative Industries: A Comparison of the Visegrad Four Countries

This article examines the relationship between economic development and the level of remuneration in the cultural and creative industries (CCIs) in the Visegrad Four countries (Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland). The aim is to assess the extent to which the level of GDP and productivity in individual countries corresponds to the wages of workers in the cultural sector. The analysis is based on available statistical data, including national and European databases (Eurostat, UNESCO, national statistical offices) and is supplemented by secondary research and specialist literature. The results show that despite the relatively comparable economic performance of the V4 countries, significant differences in remuneration within the cultural sector persist, which point to structural and political differences in the financing, recognition, and regulation of this sector. The article draws attention to the fact that CCIs are often underestimated, despite their contribution to the economy, employment, and innovation. The novelty of this study lies in providing a comparative correlation analysis between GDP per capita, cultural sector wages, and public spending on culture in the V4 countries—an approach not yet systematically applied to this region—which allows us to reveal country-specific mismatches between economic growth and cultural remuneration. Finally, we offer recommendations for improving transparency and fairness in the remuneration of cultural workers, taking into account national specificities and regional possibilities.