Cultural heritage in the 21st century : opportunities and challenges

Publication examines problems, opportunities and challenges present in the heritage debate and practice worldwide. The first part sketches out the background and issues important in the discourse of culture, heritage and identity at the beginning of the 21st century in Europe and throughout the world. The next section is devoted to the specific situation and developments in Central and Eastern Europe since 1989, pointing out the many achievements and challenges brought about by the economic and political transformation in the region. The third part is a record of the first official scientific session conducted by the members of the new ICOMOS Theory Committee, presenting issues and problems of heritage protection theory and practice in different contexts, circumstances and cultural cities. The final section points to the rising importance of non-governmental and civic initiatives in fostering heritage education and protection.