ABSTRACT
In the realm of cultural and natural heritage protection, effective management stands as a pivotal element. Management enables the fulfilment of heritage's potential and addresses internal conflicts and external pressures, aligning it with societal needs. This aspect has evolved into a distinct discipline with detailed manuals for guidance. Leading institutions like UNESCO, ICOMOS, ICCROM, and IUCN have released comprehensive management manuals for World Heritage sites, fostering an adaptable framework for heritage conservation. Recent emphasis centres on managing change, recognising that heritage evolves with time, weathering, and societal shifts. This “management of change” approach replaces preservation with adaptive transition, requiring a deep understanding of site values and attributes. Heritage management now involves a shift from top-down to bottom-up approaches, engaging local stakeholders, and integrating traditional practices, exemplified by initiatives in Zanzibar and Rio de Janeiro. The broader participation of communities, local governments, and indigenous peoples, as well as a renewed definition by ICOM, signify a transition towards a more inclusive, participatory, and adaptable heritage management approach.
