The Participation of Non-State Actors in the Implementation of Cultural Heritage Law

Abstract This chapter assesses the treaty provisions allowing non-State actors to exercise their right to access and enjoy cultural heritage and also those which provide them with a seat at the cultural heritage governance table. Following developments in international human rights law, in particular with regard to Indigenous peoples, cultural heritage treaties have eventually recognised the participation of communities and groups in the management of cultural heritage. While a fully effective and inclusive participation and cooperation is far from being achieved, this chapter acknowledges the steps moving away from a strictly top-down approach within cultural heritage governance.