‘From Local to Global: The Power of Heritage in a Changing World’ explores the significant contribution the UK’s heritage sector makes to international partnership, cultural diplomacy and global collaboration.
The Heritage Alliance writes:
Produced in partnership with Europa Nostra UK and with the support of World Monuments Fund Britain, the report provides timely insight ahead of the UK government’s anticipated Soft Power Strategy. It sets out how heritage organisations – from local charities to national institutions – are strengthening the UK’s international relationships through shared expertise, collaborative research, conservation partnerships, skills exchange and international networks.
Drawing on case studies from across the sector, the report explores five key themes:
- Partnership
- Collaboration
- Network-building
- Funding
- Shared expertise
Together, they illustrate how heritage operates as both a national asset and a global connector – addressing shared challenges including climate change, conflict recovery, community cohesion and sustainable development.
Lord Mendoza CBE, UK Soft Power Council: ‘This new report from The Heritage Alliance powerfully demonstrates how heritage connects the UK to the wider world through shared learning, cultural exchange and collective responsibility. The breadth of international partnerships showcased here reflects the sector’s resilience, imagination and generosity. As a member of the UK Soft Power Council, I am proud to see how this work strengthens the UK’s cultural presence worldwide. At a time of profound global challenge, these endeavours remind us that heritage is a vital force for connection, collaboration and hope.’
Lizzie Glithero-West, Chief Executive of The Heritage Alliance: ‘The Heritage Alliance has supported its members and driven forward advocacy and engagement within the international space for many years, acting as an essential connector between decision-makers, funders, international colleagues and the independent heritage sector. Many of the global challenges we face, from climate change to fostering peace and dialogue, require global and truly collaborative approaches to build a better collective future for society, economies and the environment. We anticipate the publication of the government’s Soft Power Strategy and hope this report will add richness in illustrating the essential role heritage has to play in public goods and international dialogue and collaboration.’
Magnus von Wistinghausen, Executive Director of the World Monuments Fund Britain: ‘World Monuments Fund is pleased to support the publication of this report. It portrays Britain’s rich and dynamic heritage sector as exceptionally well placed to play a growing role in the country’s evolving soft power agenda. There is much to offer and to gain from deepening cross-border exchange. This report reveals a vast field of opportunity, as the catalytic role of heritage preservation for communities and society becomes ever more recognised. Central to this are strong, well-grounded peer-to-peer relationships, nurtured through ongoing investment. As World Monuments Fund in Britain, we look forward to continuing to play our role as ‘Window on the World’: sharing solutions to build resilience in the face of the many challenges confronting cultural heritage worldwide.’
Rob Woodside, Chair of Europa Nostra UK: ‘As the world becomes an even more uncertain place, it is now more important than ever to engage with our European and international colleagues. We share a common belief that heritage matters and makes a positive difference to peoples’ lives, so we need to keep talking, sharing and learning from one another. This report illustrates the scale at which we are already working, but we can achieve more with the support of government and the wider Heritage Alliance membership.’
Ian Baxter, Professor of Historic Environment Management at Heriot-Watt University and Chair of The Heritage Alliance’s Skills, Education & Engagement Advocacy Group: ‘In a time of geopolitical uncertainty, the positive connections which the UK’s heritage organisations make with communities of interest in other countries is vital to build cultural understanding, develop skills and experience, and learn from each other. Heritage matters, and the case studies in the report demonstrate the passion and commitment of our sector to build global connections as we collectively strive to look after and celebrate what is important to us.’
