Relationship between Cultural Heritage Management and Community Engagement

Abstract

Cultural heritage is a precious link between past, current and future generations. The more societies develop, the more important it becomes to preserve this heritage to ensure cultural identity and social cohesion within a society. Nevertheless, traditional top-down approaches to heritage management are being overtaken by other, more inclusive, approaches involving community. The shift acknowledges that local populations are no longer regarded as passive recipients of efforts to conserve their cultural heritage, but rather, active stewards of it.Written to examine the intricate connection of cultural heritage management to community engagement, this article is the lens through which we observe how participatory approaches relating to conservation and preservation strategies are reshaping how heritage is being managed worldwide. Involving local stakeholders will be explored as to the benefits, challenges, and best practices when safeguarding tangible and intangible cultural assets. Drawing on case studies and emerging trends, we aim to offer useful findings for heritage professionals, policymakers and community leaders working towards more sustainable and equitable preservation.