ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we examine power dynamics in the governance of European cultural heritage in the European Union, with an empirical focus on the European Heritage Label. We discuss the complex power relations inherent in the European Heritage Label by examining how the decision- and policy-making, governance, interaction, and (hierarchical) positions of different actors are manifested and dealt with in our field research data. The chapter starts from a discussion on multilevel and participatory governance, followed by an analysis of the multi-directionality of the European Union’s governance of heritage. We focus on top-down/bottom-up dynamics, power relations, and tensions in the governance of the European Heritage Label and how these interact with its management and meaning-making processes. We also discuss networks created by the European Heritage Label governance and how they function. Finally, we explore how the European Heritage Label is used to govern various social, societal, and political issues in Europe.
