The Position and Role of Archaeological Heritage in Sustainable Development in Vietnam

LÂM Thị Mỹ Dung

This paper analyses the role of archaeological heritage in Vietnam’s sustainable development, arguing that it should be understood as an integrated system comprising not only artifacts and sites but also their surrounding landscapes and associated intangible values. It shows that archaeological heritage generates multidimensional benefits inheritance, regeneration, creativity, and transformative capacity that support cultural identity and social cohesion. Because archaeological sites are highly vulnerable to both natural impacts and social pressures, the paper proposes a dynamic management framework described as “heritagization,” which links discovery, research, evaluation, protection, conservation, and sustainable use into a continuous process. Methodologically, the study highlights a shift from conventional, top-down management dominated by experts toward a collaborative, multi-stakeholder model involving local communities, state agencies, investors, and the media, treating participation and shared responsibility as conditions for effective conservation and for converting heritage into a “living resource” with long-term value. The paper concludes that archaeological heritage contributes directly to sustainable development by maintaining cultural diversity, strengthening national identity, and supporting local economies through tourism and education, provided that conservation is integrated into socio-economic planning and supported by digital technologies. It also identifies key risks: illegal exploitation, excessive commercialization, and erosion of local community rights, arguing that these threats require comprehensive governance and clear benefit-sharing mechanisms. Case studies illustrate that, when properly managed, archaeological heritage can protect culture and environment while improving livelihoods and adapting to changing social values, positioning it as both a cultural legacy and a strategic asset for Vietnam’s long-term development.