ABSTRACT
Politics and heritage have been intertwined since the French Revolution, with heritage policies often influenced by political agendas. Nationalism and heritage policies historically went hand in hand, drawing on symbols and values for partisan identity. Today, heritage serves the “nation-branding” function and has economic significance. Nationalist politicians often wield heritage to build partisan identity, seen in cases like Turkey's Ottoman heritage promotion, Hindu nationalism's focus on Indian heritage, and China's investment in cultural and natural heritage for national pride. Heritage is also used by movements seeking autonomy, exemplified by Scottish and Basque nationalism. Armed conflicts have led to intentional destruction of cultural heritage, such as in Palmyra and Timbuktu. Social movements also leverage heritage to address issues like racism. While politics is inseparable from heritage, excessive politicisation can undermine heritage's core functions. UNESCO's governance shift and the World Heritage Convention's politicisation have shown how political interests can erode heritage conservation. In a world of shifting international relations and growing nationalism, safeguarding heritage requires transparent decision-making, civil society participation, and alliances to uphold the role of “good” politics.
