The Future of World Heritage Cities: Heritage Governance and New Urban Commons

Grassroots heritage activism can effectively challenge institutional frameworks and lead to the creation of new urban commons, even outside officially protected World Heritage zones. This study highlights how residents of Toruń, a UNESCO World Heritage city since 1997, successfully advocated for the preservation and official recognition of contested heritage sites despite constraints like the Covid-19 pandemic. By joining decision-making bodies or involving recognized experts, citizens shaped the city's cultural landscape and future. The research combines semi-structured expert interviews with an analysis of local media, official statements, and planning documents to demonstrate the impact of resident-driven initiatives on heritage governance.

Eremenko, Iuliia. (2026). The Future of World Heritage Cities: Heritage Governance and New Urban Commons. KOBRA Universität Kassel. https://doi.org/10.17170/KOBRA-2026081012337