World Heritage Site
Definition and Overview
A World Heritage Site is a landmark or area with legal protection by an international convention administered by the UNESCO. World Heritage Sites are designated by UNESCO for having cultural, historical, scientific or other forms of significance. The sites are judged to contain "cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity".
Criteria for Selection
To be selected as a World Heritage Site, a location must meet at least one out of ten selection criteria. These criteria are explained in the Operational Guidelines for the Implementation of the World Heritage Convention which, besides the text of the Convention, is the main working tool on World Heritage. The criteria are regularly revised by the World Heritage Committee.
List of World Heritage Sites
As of 2020, there are 1,121 World Heritage Sites located in 167 States Parties. Of these, 869 are cultural, 213 are natural, and 39 are mixed properties. The countries with the largest number of sites include China, Italy, Spain, and France.
Benefits of Designation
Designation as a World Heritage Site provides widespread recognition and enhanced protection for sites or areas of exceptional cultural or natural significance. It can also provide an economic boost from increased tourism. However, designation can also have negative effects, particularly if the increased tourism leads to damage to the site.
Controversies and Criticisms
There have been numerous controversies and criticisms of the World Heritage Sites program. These include political interference, tourism pressures, lack of resources for site management and conservation, overemphasis on European sites, and the impact of designation on local communities.
See Also
- List of World Heritage Sites in Africa
- List of World Heritage Sites in Asia
- List of World Heritage Sites in Europe
