Mutually Beneficial: Heritage Conservation and Community Development in Ethiopia

A key finding from this study is the mutual benefit between heritage conservation and community development at UNESCO World Heritage Sites, exemplified by Ethiopia's Rock-hewn Churches at Lalibela and Harar Jugol. The research highlights a shift in conservation strategies from top-down approaches to values-led, grassroots methods that integrate local traditions and communities. By analyzing the UNESCO World Heritage Centre’s evolving perception of community roles, the study illustrates how these sites contribute to both cultural preservation and economic growth, particularly through tourism. It also underscores the importance of public policy advocacy to protect heritage sites and their associated communities, offering lessons for Ethiopia and other nations developing cultural tourist destinations.

Gottert, L. L. Mutually Beneficial: Heritage Conservation and Community Development in Ethiopia. Maryland Shared Open Access Repository. https://doi.org/10.13016/M28J11