India to chair, host UNESCO's World Heritage Committee in July
India is gearing up to host and chair the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for the first time ever! The 46th session is set to take place in New Delhi from July 21 to 31, 2024, as confirmed by Vishal V Sharma, Permanent Representative of India to UNESCO. This significant event highlights India's rich cultural and historical heritage as the nation takes the lead in global conversations about preserving our shared past.
About UNESCO's World Heritage Committee
The World Heritage Committee happens once every year to deliberate on the administration of current World Heritage Sites and to receive nominations from member nations. Each regular session ends with the committee electing a chairperson, five vice-chairpersons, and a rapporteur from among the members whose terms carry over to the following one. Two-thirds of the state's members may request the calling of extraordinary meetings. Riyadh, in Saudi Arabia, was the host nation for this committee in 2023.
UNESCO releases official statement regarding the 46th session in India
UNESCO recently announced this decision, stating, "At the 19th extraordinary session (UNESCO, 2023), the World Heritage Committee decided that its 46th session will take place in India." The announcement continued, "Following a proposal by the authorities of the State Party of India, and in consultation with the UNESCO Director-General, the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee will take place from July 21 to 31, 2024 in New Delhi, India."
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Role of the World Heritage Committee of UNESCO
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency within the United Nations (UN) that fosters security and global peace through international cooperation in fields like education, arts, science, and culture. The World Heritage Committee, which consists of representatives from 21 member states and meets annually, plays a vital role in adding new sites to the esteemed list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
India to be at the forefront of important heritage conversations
India's commitment to global heritage preservation was demonstrated when External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced the country's election to the committee for the term 2021-25. Now, India, the host nation, will be at the forefront of important conversations about heritage conservation, providing a platform to highlight its rich cultural heritage and commitment to preserving historical sites. India proudly boasts 42 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, securing its place as the sixth country globally with the most such recognized sites.
