Bosnia Heritage Managment

This program explores how societies confront difficult histories through heritage, using Sarajevo & Mostar (Bosnia and Herzegovina) as relevant case studies. The program creates space for thoughtful, respectful, and globally relevant conversations about the past. Ethnic conflicts are not unique to Bosnia and heritage management must always take into account the different views, interests and memories of different stakeholders whenever and however narratives of the past are presented to the public. This program is not for the faint of heart as it deals with recent, and quite horrific, violence. But its importance in a world where military conflicts are on the rise cannot be underestimated. The program provides students with tools to understand conflicting narratives and ways to try to weave those together when conflicts end. Despite its relevance, this program is only two weeks long and we are not certain this will sufficiently time for participants to absorb all materials. We recommend that the program director consider expanding the program to four weeks.