When theory and practice clash: participatory governance and management in Takht-e Soleyman

This study reveals a significant gap between international theories and national policies on participatory governance and the actual implementation of these approaches at UNESCO World Heritage Sites, particularly in rural cultural landscapes like Takht-e Soleyman. The research highlights challenges in aligning management practices with theoretical values, emphasizing the need for locally tailored strategies. Using a combination of theoretical analysis, in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, and large-scale surveys of local populations, the study provides a detailed examination of governance mechanisms at Takht-e Soleyman. It underscores the importance of adapting participatory management systems to local features while maintaining consistency with broader policies.

Donato, F., & Lohrasbi, A. (2017). When theory and practice clash: participatory governance and management in Takht-e Soleyman. Journal of Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainable Development, 7(2), 129–146. https://doi.org/10.1108/jchmsd-06-2015-0021