Convention on the Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage (1972)
- Drafted: 16 November 1972 (Paris)
- Entry into force: 17 December 1975
- UK Status: The UK ratified the World Heritage Convention on the 29 May 1984.
The 1972 Convention for Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage developed from the merging of two separate movements: the first focusing on the preservation of cultural sites, and the other on the conservation of nature. By regarding heritage as both cultural and natural, the Convention reminds us of the fundamental need to preserve the balance between the two.
This Convention established the World Heritage List which currently includes 890 properties considered to have Outstanding Universal Value. The Convention outlines the duties of the State, which include identifying potential sites and ensuring their protection and preservation.
By ratifying the Convention, the UK Government has agreed to:
- identify and nominate properties in its territory to be considered for inscription on the World Heritage List ensure that a listed property is protected
- ensure that a management plan is produced and kept up to date for each enlisted property protecting the Outstanding Universal Value of the properties inscribed
- provide periodical update to the World Heritage Committee on the state of the properties
To read more about world heritage and the UK National Commission for UNESCO’s work in this field please click here.
