The publication “Kulturmiljö är demokrati” (“Cultural Heritage is Democracy”) is a collaborative effort by Sweden’s 21 county administrative boards, emphasising the democratic importance of cultural heritage work. It illustrates how cultural environments and heritage sites are actively preserved, used, and developed through community involvement and collaborative initiatives, positioning cultural heritage as a public asset that upholds democratic values and civic engagement.
This document presents case studies from across Sweden that highlight public participation in cultural heritage projects, such as the school programs in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of southern Öland and the preservation efforts around Kiruna’s cultural buildings. It shows how heritage initiatives can foster a sense of shared history and promote social inclusion, thereby strengthening democratic processes.
Through examples like Visby’s World Heritage Day, where young people engage in creative, heritage-centered activities, the publication aims to inspire policy makers, local authorities, and citizens alike to see cultural heritage as a platform for civic involvement and democratic expression. This strategy reinforces the role of heritage in fostering an inclusive society where citizens actively participate in preserving and celebrating their collective past.
