ABSTRACT
The relationship between heritage and development has evolved over time. Early heritage policies focused on conservation without direct consideration of development. The concept of sustainable development, arising in the 1970s, shifted the narrative. The 1982 Mondiacult Conference expanded culture's role in development, leading to the World Decade for Cultural Development. The 1992 Earth Summit and subsequent conventions integrated culture into development frameworks. Heritage projects received support from the UNDP and the World Bank, advocating for culture's contribution to development. The Millennium Development Goals and Sustainable Development Goals recognised culture's influence on poverty reduction, education, and peacebuilding. Despite progress, challenges persist. Interpretations of sustainable development vary, reflecting differing priorities of developed and developing countries. This diversity affects heritage conservation strategies globally, posing challenges to consistent policy implementation.
