Framing Sustainable Conservation Through Site Management: A National Guideline Proposal for Türkiye’s World Heritage

Authors : Havva Burcu Kaynaş, Gülşen Dişli

Pages : 240-261

Doi:10.25306/skad.1812009

View : 82 | Download : 256

Publication Date : 2025-12-25

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Since 2005, UNESCO has required all World Heritage sites to have a heritage management plan. This is a complex and dynamic process that involves many stakeholders and requires a well-defined system for time management and operational efficiency. Therefore, this study developed a comprehensive and systematic national guideline proposal for the sustainable management of World Heritage Sites in Türkiye, based on national legislation, existing approved management plans, international charters, declarations on the subject and national guidelines for management plans in other countries. Other processes included community involvement and expert participation, including a survey. Although there are approved national management plans in Türkiye, they lack a systematic approach. The study identified the main requirements and criteria for the preparation of a sustainable management plan, its content, the identification/participation process of stakeholders and a balanced and sustainable cultural heritage policy and emphasized that the management plans prepared are not the end product but should ensure that the monitoring and review processes are continuous. The management plan guideline developed with this study contributes to the understanding of the key factors/ criteria for sustainable cultural heritage management in Türkiye and can serve as a basis for the development of specific guidelines for other similar countries.
Keywords : Sustainable Heritage Management, Participatory Approaches, Site Management Guidelines, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Türkiye

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