We are pleased to announce the publication of four key deliverables from the EMPATHS (EMpowering landscapes with Participatory Approaches To Heritage interpretation Skills) Erasmus+ project, marking a significant milestone in our mission to foster inclusive, participatory heritage interpretation practices across Europe.
The EMPATHS project aims to shift heritage interpretation from expert-led to community-driven processes. These new reports collectively establish a foundational framework to empower heritage professionals with participatory methods that amplify local voices, foster inclusion, and deepen connections between communities and their heritage.
Here’s a bird’s eye view of the deliverables:
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Baseline of Current Practices (WP2.1): This comprehensive desk research maps the global landscape of participatory heritage interpretation. It identifies existing gaps and opportunities, highlighting the urgent need for a more inclusive, values-based approach to interpretation.
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Stakeholder Mapping (WP2.2): This report introduces a social network-based method to identify and engage institutional, cultural, community, and tourism stakeholders. Real-world case studies showcase how inclusive networks can support collaborative heritage planning.
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Intra- and Cross-Sectoral Interviews (WP2.3 & WP2.4): Interviews with heritage and non-heritage professionals across 18 countries reveal diverse approaches to participation. The findings emphasize storytelling, emotional engagement, and co-creation as central to impactful heritage interpretation.
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Co-Design Sessions with Heritage Professionals (WP3.1): These interactive sessions gathered feedback from professionals to shape the upcoming EMPATHS training programme. Results confirm a strong demand for skill-building in facilitation, community engagement, and emotionally resonant communication.
These deliverables collectively pave the way for the EMPATHS Methodological Compendium and training programme—supporting a future where communities are not just audiences but active interpreters of their own heritage.
Stay tuned as we continue this exciting journey toward participatory, people-centred heritage!
Download the deliverables at: https://empaths-project.eu/results/deliverables/
