We are delighted to announce that a new project has been launched in collaboration with the NextGenHS project, focusing on the role of citizens in the evaluation of cultural heritage. The project is led by Prof. Dr. Irena Kralj Cigić as the overall coordinator, with Lana Nastja Anžur coordinating and leading the project’s activities.
The research will explore how the general public can contribute to a deeper understanding of the social, environmental, and economic values of cultural heritage. By involving citizens as active participants, the project seeks to create a more inclusive and sustainable approach to heritage research and management — one that aligns with community needs, public interests, and long-term sustainability goals.
Case studies will be carried out at the National Gallery of Slovenia and the Križanke complex, where citizens and experts will take part in surveys, focus groups, and data analysis.
Key aims of the project include:
- Identifying how different communities perceive and value heritage, by collecting large-scale survey data.
- Using factor analysis to uncover the typological and hierarchical structure of values associated with heritage.
- Testing and refining methods for integrating citizen perspectives into heritage research and management.
- Producing a scientific article to advance knowledge on social values of heritage.
- Organizing a public roundtable with heritage stakeholders to discuss results and inform policymaking.
- Contributing to the development of tools and models for inclusive heritage assessment that can be applied more broadly in Slovenia and beyond.
This innovative project will strengthen the connection between community voices and decision-making in cultural heritage management, while supporting the 2030 Agenda and the European Green Deal’s goals for sustainable development.
Duration: 15.7.2025-30.6.2027
Project code: 20-PRJ.50226.O-124
