Fifth UNITAR Series on the Management and Conservation of World Heritage Sites: Conservation for Peace

 (Hiroshima - Japan) 
From 30-03-2008   to   04-04-2008

Since 2003, this UNITAR (United Nations Institute for Training and Research) series has employed a "values-based approach", investing not only the physical, "tangible" structures of heritage sites, but also their significance, and "intangible" aspects. In the four annual workshops held to-date, participants have discussed and learned about specific means to evaluate, interpret and conserve the values and significance of potential UNESCO World Heritage sites. The workshop will focus on the potential implications and roles of heritage in post-war reconstruction and as a contribution towards peace and reconciliation.

The workshop’s main objectives are to:

• Review the World Heritage regime and its implications for peace, incorporating available information, updates and current trends;
• Elucidate the underlying principles of values-based heritage management, with a particular focus on peace building;
• Consider the role of heritage in war-torn, post-conflict or post-disaster situations;
• Examine leading policies and strategies, identifying best practices and lessons learned;
• Create long-term management plans for sites, using nomination dossier or periodical reporting formats;
• Enhance long-term learning and exchange among the participants.

Study tours to the two World Heritage sites in Hiroshima – Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dom) and Itsukushima Shinto Shrine – will provide a living laboratory and direct learning opportunities.

The participants (up to 30) will consist of:

• potential or actual heritage site managers;
• natural/cultural conservation specialists and trainers;
• decision-makers and government officers within national World Heritage administrations such as the ministries of Environment, Culture, Forestry or Tourism;
• representatives of national academic institutions, think-tanks and civil society.

Selection, by an ad hoc committee composed of UNITAR and its faculty, will be based on candidates’ qualifications and merits, potential benefits gained from the workshop in the conduct of daily professional duties and future roles they may play as trainers. Priority will be given to representatives from post-conflict countries and sites affected by man-made or natural disasters.

The workshop is organized by UNITAR in partnership with UNESCO, the Getty Institute, ICOMOS, IUCN and financial support provided by the Hiroshima Prefectural Government.