Heritage for Young Professionals: Call to Joint Action

       “This paper is a collaborative work of young heritage professionals who have attempted to highlight some difficult aspects of the heritage sector. These aspects presented in the document, though highly influenced by the situation within Europe, may also link with realities beyond the continent’s geographical boundaries.
        The authors felt inspired to write this document, following the European Year of Youth, determined by the European Union. Throughout this time, as young heritage professionals, they were not fully satisfied with their integration or progression within the sector. They witnessed the (ongoing) struggles of friends and colleagues, which worsened with Covid-19 and, more recently, with the socioeconomic consequences of Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. This led them to express their concerns in multiple contexts, individually and in connection with other people.”

        “The authors understand and respect the position of some entities which might hesitate to be associated with Human Rights advocacy, especially concerning labour rights. Nevertheless, they also believe it to be important for the heritage sector to rethink some of its practices to ensure its existence and development in accordance with Human Rights standards. It is their belief that even though the cultural field – in particular, the heritage one – suffers from a lack of funding and resources, there are some (ethical) changes that can be easily made to counteract some of the challenges elaborated upon in this document.
        These young professionals firmly believe in freedom of expression and opinion. They also support access to information and activities which facilitate increasing public awareness, and which are cornerstones of the EU. However, they are not looking for exclusivity, but only hope to encourage other groups of young people to express their concerns and possible resolutions, even if they may detach from the following perspectives.
        Ultimately, this document expresses a will to integrate the heritage field, counteract some of its fragilities, and – by freeing it from these obstacles – apply all the passion in disseminating the positive potential of heritage.”