European Cultural Heritage Strategy for the 21 st century „ Page 11 Chapter 2 Scope he European Cultural Heritage Strategy for the 21st century pursues an inclusive approach and involves not only the local, regional, national and European public authorities, but also all heritage stakeholders including professionals, (international) non-governmental organisations, the voluntary sector and civil T society. — It promotes good governance 5 based on participatory management involving primarily the national, regional and local levels. For it is the local authorities that have a direct relationship with their heritage and which manage it on a day-to-day basis. It is therefore at this level that citizens must be encouraged to play a greater role in the implementation of this strategy, within the context of public action and in closer co-oper- ation with the work carried out by the professionals and the public agencies concerned. — The concept of cultural heritage has significantly changed in recent decades and its position continues to vary according to the society in which it is located. The customary divisions are disappearing and giving way to a holistic approach: cultural heritage, which encompasses an intangible dimension, know-how and attitudes, is inextricably linked to its context and its natural and cultural environment. New relationships are emerging between cultural heritage and contemporary creation, allowing further scope for creativity and innovation. — In accordance with the Faro Framework Convention, the recognition of heritage is conceived as a shared responsibility: heritage is no longer limited to those elements officially recognised as such by the national authorities - the protected heritage - but now includes those elements regarded as heritage by the local population and local authorities. This development prompts new, more participatory and more collaborative management approaches. — Heritage is a non-renewable common good whose conservation, protection, restoration and enhance- ment are the responsibility of society as a whole, including in the political, legal and administrative spheres. Consequently, there is a need to define the roles of everyone involved and to give citizens in particular the means of shouldering their responsibilities. Awareness raising, research and training are therefore essential. Training is imperative to maintain and pass on European knowledge and skills which themselves constitute a form of heritage on which to capitalise. This approach must be based on dialogue between the State, citizens and professionals, with a view to mutual enrichment. 5. Good governance is a concept that inspires the conduct of public policies and the way those who hold public offices perform their tasks. It includes such principles as - see as a reference the Council of Europe Strategy for Innovation and Good Governance at Local Level, adopted by the Committee of Ministers on 8 March 2008 - holding of fair and free elections, respect for diversity, transparency and ethical behaviour, accountability, openness and participation in the management of public affairs, sustainabi- lity and long-term vision, sound and responsible use of public funds, etc. “Participatory management” is used here as a shortcut for openness to the needs and expectations of stakeholders, readiness of the holders of public authority to listen to them and provide responses to their expectations or queries, delivering public policies in a spirit of openness, accountability and shared ownership.