Conflict Resolution in the Management of In-Situ Museums

Abstract

This paper suggests a negotiation model for managing disputes that occur between archaeologists, developers, local authorities, local communities and other “stakeholders” in the case of archaeological remains that are discovered on rescue excavations. Despite the existing theoretical discourse on the dissonant nature of heritage and the necessity to manage conflicting values and recognise different power relationships, heritage and conflict theorists have not adequately dealt with the development of conflict management techniques and tools that can be effectively integrated into the overall heritage management process. In addition, disputes related to in situ conservation of archaeological remains, discovered on rescue excavations constitute an everyday phenomenon, especially in historic urban cities, that requires specific strategies and tactics on behalf of heritage managers who deal with it. This paper will present a negotiation model the applicability of which is being explored in the case of in-situ museums - modern structures that incorporate in situ conserved archaeological remains in their basements. The development of the suggested model has been based on the identification of constants and variables of conflicts and disputes that have occurred in a wide range of case studies covering a broad geographical area and chronological period.