Shared Cultural Heritage: Programme

In the course of its history, the Netherlands has left traces all over the world and imported many cultural influences, both tangible and intangible. International cooperation is needed if we are to preserve and manage this shared cultural heritage and make it accessible. After all, we all share a common past. But this is not only a task for government. It is becoming increasingly clear that public participation is essential for the sustainable development and repurposing of cultural heritage.

Shared cultural heritage continues to be significant for international cultural policy. Cooperation on the basis of equality, reciprocity and respect for ownership is at the core of our commitment to our shared cultural heritage. Here too, we pursue the three objectives set out above. A tailor-made approach will be adopted in those countries of importance to our shared cultural heritage. Where these are focus countries, shared cultural heritage will be taken on board in the integrated multi-year strategy.

Within this framework, we have decided on a more focused commitment to shared cultural heritage, on the basis of an analysis of trends and results achieved. This means that in allocating grants and accounting for their expenditure, more attention will be devoted to operational goals and performance indicators. We plan to focus on three themes: (1) historic city centres; (2) heritage and water management; and (3) the role of heritage in the images that Dutch and others have historically formed of one another Initiatives will have to be generated in the field, both in the Netherlands and elsewhere, and involve cooperation between a Dutch and at least one foreign partner. A strong element of reciprocity will be required.

Embassies in various countries will be allocated funds for this purpose. DutchCulture, the Cultural Heritage Agency and the Dutch National Archives will work closely with each other and the diplomatic missions to promote cohesion between the three themes and pooling of activities. The Mondriaan Fund will also be involved through its support to international partnership projects. Existing instruments will be continued: the matching funds, the programmes for foreign visitors, the digital provision of information (DutchCulture), training and advice (Cultural Heritage Agency, National Archives) and the digitalisation of and access to archives (National Archives).

For the full text of the International Cultural Policy framework 2017-2020, please click here.