Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage 1972

The World Heritage Convention embraces the idea of a common cultural and natural heritage and acknowledges their similarities and equal importance to humankind. It seeks to establish a system of international co-operation and assistance designed to support States Parties to the Convention in their efforts to identify and conserve that heritage. One of the key elements of this strategy is the establishment of the World Heritage List, on which may be inscribed cultural, natural, and mixed cultural and natural properties that meet the criteria of being of outstanding universal value. This chapter explores the process of inscription, the relevant duties of the States Parties, considerations of enforcement and compliance, the roles of the World Heritage Committee and its advisory bodies, protection mechanisms and international assistance, and the function of the List of World Heritage in Danger. It concludes with an outlook on current and future challenges.