The position paper titled “Youth for the future of cultural heritage in Europe” highlights the critical role of young individuals in safeguarding and promoting cultural heritage, especially in light of challenges posed by climate change, digital transformation and necessity for building resilience within the sector. Stemming from the momentum of the 2022 European Year of Youth, this paper continues efforts to amplify young people’s voices and priorities regarding cultural heritage preservation. It underscores themes such as inclusivity, collaboration, intergenerational dialogue, capacity building within the sector, and the integration of emerging technologies.
Central to the paper’s message is a call to action for readers and partners to endorse a pledge, committing to these principles and collective efforts towards ensuring a sustainable and inclusive future for cultural heritage across Europe. It emphasizes the urgency of proactive measures and fostering collaboration to fully harness the potential of cultural heritage in addressing contemporary challenges.
By championing the perspectives and contributions of youth, the paper advocates not only for the preservation of cultural heritage but also underscores the transformative impact of engaging young generations in shaping its future trajectory. It serves as a catalyst for dialogue, collaboration, and concerted action towards realizing a shared vision of a vibrant, resilient, and inclusive cultural heritage landscape in Europe. This document resonates with professionals and enthusiasts in the field of European heritage, offering insights and recommendations for advancing youth involvement and fostering sustainable practices in cultural heritage preservation.