This research focused on three key questions: Who is actively involved in heritage? What do they do? And why do they do it?
Activities
In their free time, the Dutch engage in heritage by conducting research, organizing events and gatherings, and maintaining or restoring cultural heritage. More than 40% of active heritage practitioners are part of an association, informal group, or online community.
For example, some research the history of historic buildings in their hometown or trace the migration story of their Hindustani family. Others help organize a theater performance in a regional language, a harvest festival, or a local history event. Some contribute by preserving an old sailing cargo ship or crafting costumes for carnival.
Who is active and why?
The research shows that more young people than seniors actively engage with cultural heritage in their free time. People with a disability or chronic condition are just as involved as those without. Geographically, participation is slightly higher outside highly urbanized areas.
The six million Dutch people dedicate their free time to heritage because it brings them joy and relaxation and allows them to learn more about the past. Many also feel a sense of responsibility to help preserve cultural heritage. The most common barrier to active participation is a lack of time.
Minister Bruins (Culture):
Heritage is more than a word. Heritage is all around us, it connects us and largely determines our common identity. That is why I am so happy that so many Dutch people are interested in heritage and even actively work on preserving it in their free time. The mill near your house, the historic buildings on the village square or the traditions in your area. All things that shape us and are our legacy to future generations.
Susanne Bergwerff from KIEN contributed to the research. Bergwerff:
The data that emerges from the Heritage Practice Monitor provides insight into the role that intangible heritage has in our society. From actively practicing to visiting and reading about it. Thanks to the questions in the Monitor about meaning, we will be able to say (even) more about the value of intangible heritage.
About the research
The KIEN and the RCE have conducted in-depth research into heritage practice in the Netherlands for the first time in 10 years. A questionnaire was developed for this purpose, which was distributed via a sample among the panel of research agency Ipsos I&O. A total of 5,050 Dutch people aged 12 or older participated in this research.
The first results of this research can now be consulted via the Heritage Monitor of the RCE . A more extensive report of the research will be published in early 2025. Separate research is being conducted into heritage practice in the Caribbean Netherlands.
Do you also want to work for cultural heritage? Then take a look at the vacancy bank of erfgoedvrijwilliger.nl .