Whether it is coming together around shared training programmes, project-based collaboration, or through other initiatives, most heritage professionals now recognize regional collaboration as endemic to the cultural heritage profession.  Structured cooperation between geographically proximate initiatives can bring substantial added benefits to a network of institutions in a region, and to the organizations working together on international cooperation.

Commonality of issues, needs, types of heritage, situations, cultural perspectives, and challenges faced in the regions underpin a strong case for regional collaboration. These can be extended to include common languages, history, or beliefs throughout regions in many parts of world.

Regional collaboration provides opportunities to address focused targets and objectives in depth. Collaboration of local partners, institutions, and colleagues allows a thorough analysis leading to sound solutions on the ground, sustainable in the long-term, and rooted in the regions.

updated on: 15 November, 2012