Publications
Fading memory and the inexistent past
A hierarchy of heritage significance, shaped by political agendas, marginalizes both 'difficult' and incidentally associated heritage. This study reveals how neo-imperial Russian elites weaponize historical revisionism to deny the significance of mass repression during the Soviet era, particularly within UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Solovetsky Islands. It demonstrates that even privileged heritage, such as grand architectural ensembles built with forced labor, suffers misrecognition due to its incidental ties to undesired narratives. The research employs case studies—including a GULAG camp on the Solovetsky Islands and the Moskva-Volga canal—to analyze how political processes create a flawed hierarchy that undermines accurate historical recognition.
Anna Gaynutdinova, Inclusion vs. Exclusion. Overcoming Undemocratic Contextual Issues in Integrating Communities to Heritage Management and Preservation
Local community engagement in heritage conservation, particularly within the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Cultural and Historic Ensemble of the Solovetsky Islands,' has demonstrated resilience despite undemocratic contextual challenges. The study analyzes over 50 years of practice, revealing that effective integration of communities into heritage management can mitigate adverse political and social circumstances. It highlights the significance of inclusive approaches in preserving cultural heritage, even under restrictive conditions. The research synthesizes insights from various initiatives across Russia, emphasizing the need for adaptive strategies to overcome exclusionary contexts.
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