The Florence Declaration

Over 1,650 participants from 94 countries came together in Florence from 9-14 November 2014 for the 18 General Assembly of the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS). 1300 technical proposals and the exchange between heritage specialists have culminated in the following Declaration of principles and recommendations on the value of cultural heritage and landscapes for promoting peaceful and democratic societies. All individuals and communities have the right to benefit from cultural heritage and landscape to the same extent that they have a duty to preserve its authenticity and cultural diversity as a human right. This declaration encourages deep reflection on heritage management ethics and practices so that the challenges facing present and future generations can be addressed. ICOMOS can steer this process thanks to a holistic vision of harmonious development focused on the potential of cultural heritage as a testimony of peace and cohesion.