Neringa Latvytė (EUROPAST / Vilnius University)
Traditionally, museums were seen as authoritative institutions where experts controlled historical and cultural narratives, with visitors passively receiving information. These exhibitions often reflected a positivist and progress-oriented perspective shaped by specialists. However, contemporary museology is increasingly adopting a participatory model, where communities and visitors engage actively in museum activities. This approach transforms museums into platforms for dialogue and collaboration, presenting history in a more diverse and inclusive manner.
In Lithuania, this participatory shift is crucial for memory institutions. By involving various social groups in historical interpretation, museums help reduce social exclusion and strengthens democratic processes. Public history thus becomes a means to ensure that historical narratives are accessible and open to all, while museums serve as spaces promoting critical thinking and civic engagement. This inclusive approach supports the creation of a more democratic society in Lithuania.
The presentation will illustrate this shift through a case study of municipality museums in the Vilnius region, highlighting the potential and opportunities these institutions have in fostering community involvement and enhancing democratic participation.