Following the agenda established through the Council of Europe’s Framework Convention on the Value of Cultural Heritage for Society, more recent conclusions of the Council of the European Union have reiterated the view that cultural heritage is a “resource for a sustainable Europe”. The European Commission has also highlighted that the contribution of cultural heritage to economic growth and social cohesion is undervalued, in spite of growing scientific evidence, and has called for an integrated approach to cultural
heritage for Europe.

In light of key European reports and documents, Part 1 of this report provides an overview of key trends and developments in the cultural heritage sector development in both the European Union and Council of Europe. It highlights the new emphasis on economic and social potential including through evidenced-based policy, as well as new managements models, the skills development, innovative products and services, and new technologies.

In Part 2, following data collection and discussions with key stakeholders within the field of cultural heritage in Armenia, an analysis of the Armenian cultural heritage sector is provided. This summarises the response of the RA Ministry of Culture to a series of questions and issues about the current situation of the cultural heritage sector and identifies a number of critical issues, including by reference to the observations of other stakeholders, which point to areas for development and action.