S56-7

UNESCO 2001 Convention - Benefits of Ratification for Asia

Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage, UNESCO, France

Over the last decades, underwater cultural heritage (UCH) has become significantly vulnerable and threatened by unethical and commercial exploitation. The Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage was adopted by UNESCO in 2001 to protect this heritage for future generations. The Rules contained in its Annex provide practical guidelines for UCH activities and have become a major reference worldwide. Through times, the concern for UCH's preservation and importance in the Asia-Pacific region has increased. As a result of the constant efforts by UNESCO during the founding stage, between 2009 and 2011, a series of technical training was organized in the region and achieved a successful outcome: the courses have increased capacity in underwater research with nearly 100 underwater archaeologists from over 15 countries trained. The UNESCO course graduates are today key contributors and valuable personnel for UCH safeguarding the region. For the effective implementation of the Convention and its Annex, however, we need the highest level of commitment to ensure sustainable management of UCH. By ratifying the Convention, the region will gain considerable advantages. It enables states to join the international community in combating illegal recovery and trafficking, strengthen cooperation to protect the submerged sites outside of territorial waters, and help increase the protection of UCH to the same level as land-based sites. Furthermore, states become eligible for other benefits such as UNESCO Best Practice designations, scientific and technical assistance from the Convention’s advisory body, as well as the UNESCO Fund. Unfortunately, the causes of damage and loss of this heritage by unethical activities are still ongoing in Asia and new challenges have emerged such as climate change and unregulated tourism. This paper aims to urge the academic community and policy makers to tighten up the cooperation to confront a challenging future together.