UNESCO’s Director-General Audrey Azoulay spoke at the opening about how World Heritage sites have expanded from 12 in 1979 to more than 1200 today.
If there's one form of multilateralism that knows no crisis, it's heritage. With its 196 States Parties, our Convention is one of the most universally ratified - a true plebiscite and a solid popularity in every corner of the world.
The UNESCO designation plays a vital role in protecting and celebrating sites of exceptional cultural and natural value around the world. The recognition helps preserve these treasures for future generations, but also promotes sustainable tourism, education and international cooperation.
A stronger African presence on the UNESCO World Heritage List
In recent years, UNESCO has been part of a broader push to strengthen Africa’s presence on World Heritage List, and highlight the continent’s rich history, diverse cultures and unique ecosystems. Since 2018, 15 new sites across 8 countries in sub-Saharan Africa have joined the World Heritage List.
New nominations from Guinea Bissau, Sierra Leone, Cameroon and Malawi will be examined at the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee.
If inscribed, these properties will lift sub-Saharan Africa’s tally of World Heritage sites to 112—up from 93 in 2018. This reflects the commitment of the Director-General of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay, to increasing the presence of African sites on the World Heritage List.
Beyond preserving sites, UNESCO also aims to build a wide network of local heritage experts to develop African nominations. Since 2021, a pioneering mentorship programme, launched with partners including the African World Heritage Fund, ICCROM, ICOMOS and IUCN, has trained 60 African heritage professionals – 30 women and 30 men – from 46 countries.
UNESCO is also working with 5 universities in Cameroon, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa and Tanzania to support higher education in the field of heritage.
New Tools for States
UNESCO has launched a platform that geo references World Heritage sites, as well as UNESCO Geoparks and Biosphere Reserves. The UNESCO Sites Navigator allows states to get advanced geographic information about UNESCO designated sites using real-time satellite data. This means people can better analyse risks to sites such as floods and fire and improve prevention plans.
Another platform that helps promote heritage is the on-line platform “Dive into Heritage” that uses 3D modelling and interactive maps to allow people to explore heritage sites from anywhere in the world.
By creating practical, cutting-edge tools, promoting multilateralism, and strengthening expertise amongst a new generation, UNESCO is ensuring that heritage is preserved and promoted.
