Ukraine became a member of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee

On November 22, a significant milestone was reached in Ukraine's cultural and diplomatic endeavors, as the nation secured a seat on the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for the first time. The momentous occasion unfolded during the 24th session of the General Assembly of States Parties to the Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage at the UNESCO headquarters in the picturesque city of Paris.

The Ministry of Culture and Information Policy of Ukraine (MKIP) proudly announced this achievement, highlighting that Ukraine had submitted its candidacy to the prestigious committee for the years 2023–2027 in July 2022. This success is not merely symbolic; it underscores Ukraine's commitment to the principles outlined in the 1972 Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, to which Ukraine became a party in 1988.

The aforementioned convention serves as the bedrock for conferring the coveted UNESCO World Heritage Site status upon cultural and natural treasures. Notably, the convention delineates the responsibilities of states in possession of such heritage, fostering international collaboration in its protection. Importantly, each state party to the convention assumes an obligation not to harm the heritage located within the territories of fellow state parties.

Ukraine's Historic Election to the UNESCO World Heritage Committee

Ukraine's election to the UNESCO World Heritage Committee holds profound implications for the nation's active engagement in the convention's implementation. This newfound position empowers the Ukrainian representative office in Kiev to play a pivotal role in decision-making processes concerning the utilization of the World Heritage Fund. Furthermore, Ukraine will now have a voice in determining the inclusion of sites on both the World Heritage List and the List of World Heritage in Danger.

The List of World Heritage in Danger, a crucial facet of UNESCO's conservation efforts, serves as a register of cultural and natural wonders facing imminent threats. Only sites confronting severe and specific perils, including armed conflicts, may find a place on this list. The committee, with Ukraine as a contributing member, possesses the authority to augment or modify this list in response to evolving circumstances.

In essence, Ukraine's election to the UNESCO World Heritage Committee not only marks a historic achievement for the nation but also signals its enhanced role in shaping the global conversation on the protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage. As Ukraine steps into this influential position, it is poised to contribute significantly to the ongoing efforts to safeguard the world's most cherished landmarks and ensure their legacy for future generations.

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

UNESCO is an abbreviation for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. It is a specialized UN agency, established in 1945, to promote international cooperation in the fields of education, science, culture, and communication. UNESCO's main objectives include promoting peace and security through cooperation among nations in the fields of education, science and culture, promoting the universal values ​​of truth, justice, freedom, understanding and cooperation, and preserving the world's cultural and natural heritage.

UNESCO is known for initiatives such as the World Heritage Program, which protects and preserves places of special cultural and natural interest around the world. The organization is also committed to promoting education around the world, especially in developing countries, and defending freedom of the press and freedom of expression. Its headquarters is in Paris, France.