This module examines heritage governance processes within the framework of UNESCO, with specific attention to decision-making and negotiation processes in international UN institutions. It investigates the underlying principles of international heritage policy and governance, institutional structures and partners as well as processes of implementation. Among the key ideological concepts that will be considered are the universal value and relevance of heritage, the notion of intergenerational responsibility and the question whether heritage sharing and safeguarding contributes to global peacebuilding. Likewise, the conceptual and practical integration of culture, nature and people that increasingly underpins UNESCO governance approaches is reflected. The module further analyses the organizational structure of UNESCO, its governance bodies, both of the organization and its individual treaties, as well as partner and advisory organizations. It considers critically how global governance approaches and policy frameworks are translated into state level contexts and national legislation, highlighting the opportunities and challenges of coordination across levels of governance, including the increasing emphasis on broad community participation. This module ultimately encourages a critical understanding of international heritage governance as both an international policy framework and a heritage practice shaped by diverse actors at multiple levels.

After successful completion of this module, students will be able to: • Critically interrogate the guiding principles, ethical notions and institutional processes which guide governance decisions and development of policy frameworks within UNESCO. • Analyze power dynamics of UNESCO’s governance bodies, intergovernmental structures, multilateral decision-making processes and their international perception • Evaluate the transfer mechanism which translate international heritage governance into national structures and legislation and assess the implications for governance coherence across different scales • Apply critical policy analysis to contemporary challenges and formulate informed arguments regarding the appropriateness and legitimacy of the governance processes considered.

Modules

UNESCO Heritage Governance (Online)

Contents

Learning outcomes

Assessment