Marc Jacobs

Marc Jacobs is a historian and heritage scholar affiliated with the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), specifically with the SKAR research group, on a part-time basis since 2011. He has played a pivotal role in advancing critical heritage studies and ethnology in Flanders. Previously, he served as director of FARO, the Flemish Heritage Institute, from 2008 to 2019, and held various academic and research positions at institutions including the European University Institute, the University of Antwerp, and the Meertens Institute.

Education:

• Master’s in Modern History, University of Ghent, 1985 (Thesis: Charivari in Flanders, 17th–20th century)
• Doctorate in History, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1998 (Thesis: The Chifflet Family in the Spanish Netherlands)

His research focuses on cultural and social history, folklore and ethnology, intangible heritage, and cultural policy. He has contributed significantly to debates on UNESCO conventions, heritage education, museology, and food studies. His work emphasizes the social dimensions of heritage, liminality, and identity construction.

The recent articles by Marc Jacobs reflect a strong engagement with global heritage policy, particularly UNESCO’s 2003 Convention, the Faro Framework Convention, and the Memory of the World Register. His writings span comparative case studies from Quebec, China, Italy, and Southern Africa, showing a transnational approach to safeguarding intangible heritage. Themes include education, community participation, archival preservation, and the political use of heritage.

Scientific and Professional Recognition:

• Member, Flemish UNESCO Commission (2010–2016)
• Co-Director, FARO vzw (2008–2019)
• Collaborator, VUB UNESCO Chair in Critical Heritage Studies
• Contributor to UNESCO accreditation of heritage NGOs

Marc Jacobs has been instrumental in heritage policy development in Flanders, notably the 2008 Cultural Heritage Decree. He has led numerous international projects, lectures widely, and organizes masterclasses through the ICE-Breker series. His work bridges academic research and practical policy, emphasizing participatory and critical approaches to heritage.

Laboratories and Teams:
He is associated with the Brussels Heritage Lab (BREL) and the VUB UNESCO Chair in Critical Heritage Studies, where he contributes to research on heritage governance, safeguarding practices, and global heritage dynamics.