The UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum is an initiative designed to engage and empower young professionals in the field of heritage conservation and management. Organized by the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, the forum provides a platform for young experts, practitioners, and enthusiasts to exchange ideas, share experiences, and contribute to the preservation and promotion of cultural and natural heritage sites around the world.
The forum typically takes place alongside the annual session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, providing participants with the opportunity to interact with leading experts, policymakers, and stakeholders involved in heritage conservation and management. Through workshops, seminars, panel discussions, and networking events, participants gain insights into best practices, emerging trends, and challenges facing the heritage sector.
One of the key objectives of the UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum is to foster a sense of ownership and stewardship among young professionals towards World Heritage properties. Participants learn about the significance of World Heritage sites, their outstanding universal value, and the importance of sustainable management practices to ensure their preservation for future generations.
Moreover, the forum aims to empower young professionals to become advocates and leaders in heritage conservation and management. By providing them with opportunities to develop their skills, expand their networks, and engage in meaningful dialogue, the forum equips participants with the knowledge and confidence to take on leadership roles within their own communities and organizations.
The UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum also serves as a platform for promoting diversity, inclusion, and intercultural dialogue in heritage conservation. Participants come from diverse backgrounds, representing different regions, cultures, and disciplines, which enriches the exchange of ideas and perspectives and fosters mutual understanding and respect.
The UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum plays a vital role in nurturing the next generation of heritage professionals and advocates. By empowering young professionals and fostering collaboration and dialogue, the forum contributes to the sustainable management and safeguarding of World Heritage sites for the benefit of present and future generations.
As an integral part of the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee and in the framework of the UNESCO World Heritage Education Programme, the Ministry of Culture through the Archaeological Survey of India, will host the World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2024 under the theme of World Heritage in the 21st Century: Building Capacities and Exploring Opportunities for Youth from 14 to 23 July 2024 in Delhi, Republic of India.
The Forum will enhance the expertise and capacities of young professionals in protecting, preserving, and promoting our natural and cultural World Heritage. As key actors within their local communities, they will jointly explore opportunities to operationalise the World Heritage Convention in the twenty-first century. They will discuss and gain in-depth knowledge of the global concepts of World Heritage and Sustainable Development while also having the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the local Indian heritage and its management. At the end of the Forum, the young professionals will present their Declaration to the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee.
Eligible Applicants For The UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum
Participants of the World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2024 are expected to be:
- Aged between 23 and 32 years
- Experienced in one of these fields: World Heritage, conservation, archaeology, architecture, conservation, urban planning & regeneration, restoration, art history, tourism, climate change, and digital technology
- Motivated and committed to implementing the outcomes of the Forum in their respective countries
- Committed to enhancing community engagement in the management of World Heritage properties
- Available for the entire duration of the Forum
- Proficient in English, as the Forum will be conducted entirely in English
In addition to general eligibility, the following elements will also be considered in selecting the participants:
- Balanced geographical representation
- Gender equality
- Diversity of professional backgrounds
- Ability to disseminate gained experience in the country or institution of origin
- Knowledge and experience in the management practices for World Heritage sites
Benefits
Travel and accommodation
- The participants are expected to arrive on 14 July 2024 and depart on 23 July 2024. All related expenses (economy class flights, accommodation, local transportation, and meals) will be covered by the host country for the duration of the Forum. The organizers will also assist in the travel preparations and will provide support to the participants who need a visa.
- If any participant wishes to extend his/her stay after 23 July 2024, all related costs will be covered by the participant. In such a case, the host country should be informed in advance, in order to make all the necessary arrangements.
Application Deadline: 30 April 2024.
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