The World Heritage List: interview with Jasper Chalcraft
Jasper Chalcraft, from the University of Sussex, talks about the World Heritage list.
Jasper Chalcraft questions the role of the World Heritage list with regards to local communities. He points to two threats:
- Branding strategies aimed at attracting tourists can be to the detriment of people living near the site.
- Nationalist ideologies using the label to promote their particular view of the past.
In addition, he explains UNESCO’s attempt at broadening the framework in order to move beyond a Eurocentric view of heritage:
- In 1992, with the introduction of the cultural landscape designation.
- In 2003, with the inclusion of intangible practices within world heritage.
“Perhaps everything is heritage”
Jasper Chalcraft ends his talk with this provocative statement, suggesting that expanding the concept may dilute the meaning of the World Heritage list.
Do you think extending the understanding of what is heritage beyond built heritage is an effective way to establish a more inclusive heritage policy approach?
Reach your personal and professional goals
Unlock access to hundreds of expert online courses and degrees from top universities and educators to gain accredited qualifications and professional CV-building certificates.
Join over 18 million learners to launch, switch or build upon your career, all at your own pace, across a wide range of topic areas.
