Summary

The report investigates the extent to which the right of access to and enjoyment of cultural heritage forms part of international human rights law. Stressing the need for a human rights-based approach to cultural heritage matters, the independent expert explores the concept of cultural heritage from the perspective of human rights and presents a non-exhaustive list of human rights issues related to cultural heritage.

A compilation of references in international law on the rights of individuals and communities in relation to cultural heritage and a summary of information received regarding national initiatives are included. The report further contains an analysis of the right of access to and enjoyment of cultural heritage, in particular regarding its normative content, related State obligations and possible limitations. The report's final section contains conclusions and recommendations.

Learn more about the rights related to cultural heritage on the page dedicated to this issue.

Methodology

To prepare that report and to initiate a constructive dialogue with all relevant stakeholders on the recognition, access and protection of cultural heritage, the Special Rapporteur widely disseminated the questionnaire below.

Read the questionnaire (Word): English | French | Spanish

The mandate holder also held a public consultation in Geneva on 10 February 2011. Read the Note Verbale (PDF): English