Reconstructing Heritage in the Aftermath of Civil War: Re-Visioning the Nation and the Implications of International Involvement

Post-conflict heritage reconstruction can both aid reconciliation and perpetuate symbolic violence, depending on the intentionality behind rebuilding efforts. This study reveals that while international interventions often promote a universalized 'heritage of mankind' framework, they may overlook local valuations and long-term ethical consequences, potentially undermining reconciliation. The research examines three key aspects: the guiding principles behind reconstruction choices, the resulting symbolic landscape, and the ethical dilemmas posed by third-party involvement. By analyzing the Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge in Višegrad, Bosnia and Herzegovinathe study highlights the tension between global heritage standards and local interpretations, emphasizing the need for a nuanced approach to post-conflict reconstruction that balances international values with community perspectives.

Viejo-Rose, D. (2013). Reconstructing Heritage in the Aftermath of Civil War: Re-Visioning the Nation and the Implications of International Involvement. Journal of Intervention and Statebuilding, 7(2), 125–148. https://doi.org/10.1080/17502977.2012.714241