Radioactive Heritage: The Universal Value of Chernobyl as a Dark Heritage Site

In 1986, the world witnessed the worst nuclear power accident in history at Chernobyl. Today, Chernobyl has become a popular site for dark tourism. This autoethnographic study seeks to determine whether Chernobyl has an outstanding universal value to merit designation as a UNESCO heritage site. Precedents for dark heritage sites include Auschwitz-Birkenau and Hiroshima. Their common elements are historic tragedy, the expression of strength and hope of humanity, and a symbol for change. Chernobyl is a historic tragedy. The heroism among first responders and liquidators provides hope in humanity. Chernobyl has led us to ponder the pros and cons of nuclear power. Chernobyl meets the criteria as a potential UNESCO dark heritage site, but would require the financial support of the Ukrainian government and a commitment to ensuring a safe and valuable tourism experience.