WHC Session Day #1: Looking Forward
In a video message German chancellor Angela Merkel reminded the audience of the importance of World Heritage sites for a profound understanding of culture. In her opening speech Irina Bokova, General-Director of UNESCO, called to protect mankind’s cultural heritage in times of peace and war alike. Chairwoman Böhmer underlined that the session has to send a signal that the World Heritage needs to be protected in a joint approach.
Verena Metze-Mangold, President of the German Commission for UNESCO, emphasized that young World Heritage experts should be given the special attention of the plenary. Representing a new generation of global citizens, they are playing a crucial role for the future of the World Heritage.
Five participants of the Young Experts Forum that was held prior to the Committee session presented the results of their ten-day meeting, closing the opening ceremony. In a declaration they demand to further strengthen the issues of World Heritage Education, the involvement of young people and local communities in to World Heritage management to sustainably secure the sites.
- Declaration of the Young Experts Forum 2015 (English version)
- Declaration of the Young Experts Forum 2015 (French version)