Protection of cultural heritage in the activities of UNESCO

https://www.doi.org/10.32523/2791-0954-2023-7-3-24-38

Abstract

The scientific article is devoted to the study of topical issues in the activities of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in the field of cultural heritage protection. Based on an analysis of the Constitution of this international organization, the authors consider the problems of its competence in this area. The main functions of UNESCO in the field of cultural heritage protection are revealed, in particular the implementation of education, promotion of knowledge and understanding in this area; recommendation of the adoption of relevant international treaties to interested States; cooperative function. The main areas of activity of this international organization related to the protection of cultural heritage, as well as the degree of independence of UNESCO in these matters, are considered. The lack of complete dependence of this international organization on Member States in the area under consideration is pointed out and specific examples of saving cultural heritage thanks to the efforts of UNESCO are given. The main provisions of the 1972 Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage and of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, as examples of international treaties adopted under the auspices of UNESCO and the institutional mechanism of which is administered by it, are discussed. The issue of the influence of this international organization on international treaties on the protection of cultural heritage adopted under its auspices is raised. The conclusion is drawn that UNESCO is forced to find a balance between the high goals laid down in its Constitution and the practical realities of its activities.