Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage

The Convention concerning the Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage was adopted during the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization held in Paris on 17 October–21 November 1972.This paper discusses and demonstrates the importance of protecting and preserving cultural and natural heritage at national and international levels. The World Heritage Committee established within the United Nations Educational, Science and Culture Organization (UNESCO) is responsible for the protection of cultural and natural heritage of exceptional value. The Convention creates a fund for the protection of world cultural and natural heritage and establishes conditions whereby Member States of the Convention may request international assistance to protect elements of cultural and natural heritage of outstanding universal value situated within their territories. Member States are to be encouraged to prepare reports explaining the steps taken to foster and protect the cultural and natural heritage present in their territories.