News item | 20-12-2024 | 2:55 PM
The Dutch heritage is of inestimable value. It is visible everywhere: in the countryside, in historic city centers, in museums, under water and in our traditions and stories. To ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy this, the government will improve the Heritage Act. The Council of Ministers decided this on the proposal of Minister Bruins (Education, Culture and Science). The aim is a clear and accessible heritage system, in which it is clear who has what responsibility and rights.
Mirror society
Minister Bruins: “Heritage is a mirror of our society. It not only tells the story of our past, but also offers inspiration for the future. New developments require new heritage policy. More and more people want to see and experience heritage, I think we should make that possible. We must better protect heritage, because art objects are increasingly the target of protest actions. By improving the heritage law, we ensure that our heritage is preserved for new generations.”
Digitization
In the field of digitalization, developments are following each other in rapid succession. This creates opportunities, but also new threats. Minister Bruins wants digital heritage information to be stored safely and for as many people as possible to have access to it. For example, by making museum collections available online, such as on the free online platform of the Rijksmuseum. That is why he is reviewing the rules for digital heritage information and updating the government’s archaeological information system.
Archaeological finds more publicly accessible
In addition to digital accessibility of heritage, it is also very important that archaeological finds are physically accessible to the public as much as possible. In order to show finds that are currently stored in depots to an even wider audience, Minister Bruins wants to increase the possibilities for managers of these depots. Under the current law, only the minister is allowed to do that. This makes it easier for finds to be exhibited outside the depot under responsible conditions.
Damage and destruction of heritage
Damage to heritage is irreparable: the historical authenticity of a monument or painting destroyed by vandalism can never be regained. Minister Bruins will therefore consult with the Minister of Justice and Security about the level of punishment for violations and crimes in which heritage is the victim. The minister wants to examine whether the existing penalties provide sufficient deterrence.
Amendment of the Heritage Act
The current Heritage Act, which was introduced in 2016, provides a solid legal framework for the preservation of heritage. However, recent evaluations and advice, including from the Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands, have shown that improvements are necessary to respond to new developments. The improvement of the Heritage Act is done in close collaboration with heritage organizations, municipalities, volunteers and other stakeholders. The first bills are expected to follow in 2025.
