On 29 October 2026 in Strasbourg, the Congress adopted the report “Contested memories: how local and regional authorities can manage controversial cultural heritage”. The vote took place following a debate with the participation of the OSCE High Commissioner for National Minorities, Christophe Kamp and the Mayor of Riccione (Italy), Daniela Angelini, as well as the Congress rapporteur, Keith Brown (United Kingdom, ILDG).
The report examines the prominent role of contested, conflicting and forgotten cultural heritage in Europe. It underscores that heritage sites can become points for polarisation, aggressive nationalism and historical revisionism. Informed by a range of examples – including the management of Nazi and fascist, communist, colonial, genocidal and authoritarian heritage – the report demonstrates that local and regional authorities have important responsibilities and opportunities. They are often primary stewards of public spaces and physical monuments and markers associated with historical or cultural memory. Its resolution makes clear how they can foster inclusive community engagement and consultation processes that bring communities together to decide how to deal with contentious sites and issues.
“Local and regional authorities bear significant responsibility for managing contested heritage. Their decisions on monuments, street names, and commemorative practices—whether to preserve, contextualise, or remove them—set the symbolic tone for our communities and influence community relations. When approached thoughtfully, local management of contested sites can foster much-needed dialogue and help communities navigate complex historical questions”, said Mr Brown.
Ms Angelini outlined her city’s approach to a specific example, purchasing the “Mussolini villa”, once used by Italy’s fascist former leader, for use as a municipal building, hosting exhibitions reflecting the values of the community and democracy.
The High Commissioner drew attention to the OSCE’s recent Siena Recommendations on Contested Histories and National Minorities. These highlight the importance of inclusive approaches to historical memory, advocating for the participation of various communities in the development of historical narratives that incorporate multiple perspectives.
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