Cultural Heritage in Socio-Economic Development: Local and Global Perspectives (Ideas) (Report‪)‬

Abstract In an era of holistic and integrative thinking, the potential of culture and heritage as both elements and tools for socio-economic development has been gaining the attention and imagination of scholars and policy makers alike. This article provides some idea of the contemporary culture-and-development discourse, followed by an overview of heritage-centered development trends and practices across a wide geographical span. Examples primarily focus on tangible heritage and illustrate a shift toward the inclusion of cultural heritage as a central feature of community and economic revitalization. Reference is made to parallel trends that can be observed in England, Canada, Australia, and Japan, as well as in developing countries--although the former examples are given more attention. The aim is to show the omnipresence of the expanding social context and the relevance of cultural heritage. The discussion illustrates its significant potential and the emerging global/local policy thread that advocates for integrating culture within development strategies.