Commission proposes better recognition of European heritage sites

The European Commission has proposed renewing and strengthening the legal framework of the European Heritage Label. The scheme was adopted in 2011 to give EU recognition to sites -- buildings, monuments, documents -- with exceptional symbolic value that have played a key role in shaping Europe's history, culture and integration. The proposal aims to give the initiative new momentum and strengthen its European dimension, presenting a living network of sites that together tell the story of Europe, and better recognising the cultural experiences these sites offer. In that context, the proposal includes renaming the action, from the European Heritage Label to the European Heritage List. Under the proposal, a prize would reward selected and monitored sites for their impact on the ground, alongside measures giving greater visibility, support and coordination. The new framework would make it easier for sites to take part and collaborate, give young people a stronger voice, and bring changes to the selection and monitoring process, with clearer criteria and procedures. Among the proposal's objectives are increasing European citizens' understanding of Europe's history and of the building of the Union. It is also expected to contribute to the attractiveness and the economic and sustainable development of the regions where the sites are located, in particular through cultural tourism. In addition, the European Heritage List will extend its recognition to sites in Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, as well as in EU candidate or potential candidate countries associated with the Creative Europe programme or its successors. Next steps The Commission's proposal will now be negotiated in the European Parliament and the Council. Background Currently, the European Heritage Label connects 80 sites spread over 237 locations in 23 Member States. Supported by the EU's Creative Europe programme, the European Heritage Label was established in 2011.