ARAB REGIONAL CENTRE FOR WORLD HERITAGE (ARC-WH) – BAHRAIN ANNUAL REPORT 2020
At-Turaif District in ad-Dir’iyah, Saudi Arabia © Editions Gelbart
ARAB REGIONAL CENTRE FOR WORLD HERITAGE (ARC-WH) – BAHRAIN ANNUAL REPORT 2020 ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020
France
Tunisia Algeria Syria Morocco Lebanon Iraq Libya Palestine Egypt Kuwait Jordan Bahrain UAE
Mauritania Sharjah KSA Sudan Qatar
Yemen Oman
Seiyun Sana’a Socotra, Yemen
Legend ARC-WH on-site presence and online participation
Online participation 3 ARC-WH ACTIVITIES IN 2020
France
Tunisia Algeria Syria Morocco Lebanon Iraq Libya Palestine Egypt Kuwait Jordan Bahrain UAE
Mauritania Sharjah KSA Sudan Qatar
Yemen Oman
Seiyun Sana’a Socotra, Yemen
Legend ARC-WH on-site presence and online participation
Online participation ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020
Old City of Jerusalem and its Walls. © Editions Gelbart 5 TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAIRPERSON’S INTRODUCTION BACKGROUND FOREWORD BY THE DIRECTOR
OUR MISSION & OBJECTIVES PROGRAMMES & ACTIVITIES: PROGRAMMES & ACTIVITIES: THE 5 ‘C’S 1.1 ADVISE STATE PARTIES TOWARDS THE PREPARATION OF WORLD HERITAGE NOMINATION AND THE HARMONISATION AND REVISION OF THE TENTATIVE LIST
PROGRAMMES & ACTIVITIES: PROGRAMMES & ACTIVITIES: PROGRAMMES & ACTIVITIES: 1.2 SUPPORT THE MANAGEMENTS 1.3 SUPPORTING WORLD HERITAGE 1.4 DEVELOPING AND FOSTERING OF WORLD HERITAGE SITES SITES IN DANGER SYNERGIES
PROGRAMMES & ACTIVITIES: ACTIVITIES IN FOCUS: ACTIVITIES IN FOCUS: 1.5 THEMATIC PROGRAMMES ON 2.1 THIRD CYCLE OF THE PERIODIC 2.2 JOINT ORGANISATION OF CULTURE-NATURE REPORTING IN THE ARAB REGION ONLINE EXPERT MEETING: IDENTIFYING THE POTENTIAL OF THE ARAB STATES REGION FOR A MORE BALANCED WORLD HERITAGE LIST (GAP ANALYSIS STUDY)
ACTIVITIES IN FOCUS: ACTIVITIES IN FOCUS: ACTIVITIES IN FOCUS: 2.3 PUBLICATION OF THE BOOK: 2.4 PUBLICATION OF BOOK ON 2.5 ORGANISATION OF WEBINAR WORLD HERITAGE IN THE ARAB WORLD HERITAGE CITIES IN THE ON THE CULTURAL HERITAGE AND COUNTRIES – SECOND EDITION ARAB REGION PEOPLE – BUILDING RESILIENCE IN THE SUPERIMPOSED TRAUMA
COMMUNICATION AND COMMUNICATION AND OUTREACH AND COMMUNITY AWARENESS RAISING: AWARNESS RAISING : 4.1 SUPPORTING THE PEOPLE OF COPING WITH COVID-19 COPING WITH COVID BEIRUT 3.1 CONTRIBUTION TO THE 3.2 LAUNCH OF ARC-WH E-LIBRARY #SHAREOURHERITAGE UNESCO CAMPAIGN
PARTNERSHIP AND OTHER ACTIVITIES STATISTICS AND FIGURES COLLABORATION ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020
“During 2020, ARC-WH continued its efforts to support the international campaign to safeguard Beirut’s cultural and architectural heritage in the wake of the tragic blast that trafficaly occurred in August. ”
Pearling, Testimony of an Island Economy, Bahrain © Editions Gelbart 7 CHAIRPERSON’S SHEIKHA MAI FOREWORD BINT MOHAMMED AL-KHALIFA
Despite the impacts of COVID-19 on the detailed information on the Arab reconstruction of cultural heritage sites cultural sectors across the world, the Regional Centre’s work and its role after armed conflicts. Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage in implementing the World Heritage With regard to publications and (ARC-WH) continued to implement Convention in the Arab region, as scientific research on international and follow up on projects aimed at well as fostering communication and heritage sites, the Centre is working protecting the cultural heritage of the coordination with the permanent Arab on a number of publications and Arab world through its digital platforms. delegations to UNESCO. books, such as “World Heritage Cities I wish to express my thanks and ARC-WH also drafted the action plan in the Arab Region”, and the second gratitude to the Government of Bahrain, of the second phase of a project to edition of “World Heritage of the Arab which has been a great supporter of support the World Heritage Site of States Book”, as well as the TABE’A ARC-WH since its establishment in Socotra Archipelago in Yemen after III Report, which examines the latest 2012. I would also express my sincere the conclusion of the first phase developments in natural heritage sites appreciation for the support of our of the project, which is funded by in the Arab region. ARC-WH also main partner, UNESCO and its World UNESCO’s World Heritage Fund in sought to strengthen its presence in Heritage Centre (WHC) thathas been the form of emergency aid following the digital world by modernizing its instrumental in enabling ARC-WH in the extensive damage caused by three electronic library, which includes various successful implementation of the 1972 cyclones in 2015. studies in the field of international World Heritage Convention towards the cultural and natural heritage and safeguarding of cultural and natural During 2020, ARC-WH continued its archaeological sites around the world. heritage in the Arab region. efforts to support the international campaign to safeguard Beirut’s cultural Finally, we trust that ARC-WH will In 2020, ARC-WH implemented various and architectural heritage in the continue its efforts next year to further programmes and activities to support wake of the tragic blast that trafficaly implement its strategy to preserve the Arab States. During July, ARC-WH, occurred in August. The Arab Regional our cultural and natural heritage in in cooperation with ICOMOS, organized Centre participated in many UNESCO the Arab world despite the challenges an online international experts meeting initiatives, including efforts to secure our countries face due to the global on gap analysis study of World Heritage and support Beirut National Museum, pandemic, an end to which we hope to Sites in the Arab region. ARC-WH also and to provide technical assistance see soon. held an online meeting in August on the and advice to restore the architectural Third Cycle of Periodic Reporting in the heritage in the historical city of Beirut. Arab region, in cooperation with WHC. Following the decision to postpone the In December, ARC-WH organized a Conference on integrated post-disaster Mai bint Mohammed Al-Khalifa virtual regional meeting on its role reconstruction of cultural heritage – and vision to support the efforts of social, economic and psychological Chairperson of the Governing Board Arab countries in preserving heritage, aspects of recovery, the Centre Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage in which participants were given worked to implement a study on the ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 INTRODUCTION DR. SHADIA TOUQAN BY THE DIRECTOR
The Arab Regional Centre for World as well as Advisory Bodies and other Heritage of the Arab States Book, Heritage, like many institutions, partners ensured the flexibility and launch of ARC-WH E-Library in addition faced many challenges in 2020 and creativity in ensuring the completion to participation in a number of partners had to adapt to extremely difficult and success of the planned objectives. meetings such as the AFHW Board circumstances and restrictions to meeting, ALECSO online conference One of the highlights of the achieved enable the implementation of its on Archeology and Cultural Heritage objectives during most of 2020 was planned activities and programmes in the Arab World in times of crises organizing the joint two-day online that were planned and endorsed by and ICCROM/ ATHAR workshop on meeting with the AB Unit of the the GB which met only few days mechanisms and concepts of the before the nature and extent of the WHC of the 3rd Cycle of the Periodic World Heritage Convention and Risk global pandemic were realized. Reporting in the Arab Region in Management. In cooperation with consultation with focal points and UNESCO WHC, ARC-WH also organized Despite these difficulties and officials in Arab State Parties for the online meeting on World Heritage in unprecedented working conditions, preparation of the regional Action Danger in the Arab Region, Processes the year 2020 was one of the busiest Plan to address the priorities in the and Actions in Support World Heritage years for ARC-WH. Soon after the Arab Region that should be presented Sites in Danger. Additionally, the team initial needed adjustment under the to the next WH Committee session. organized and participated in a few new working conditions, the ARC-WH An expert Meeting was also jointly webinars/meetings on reconstruction team, like most teams and institutions organized with ICOMOS to implement and recovery. In the aftermath of the worldwide, worked mainly from the final meeting for the “Gap devastating blast in Beirut in August, home and started communicating Analysis Study” which aims to identify ARC-WH participated in UNESCO internally and with main partners the potential of the Arab Region for Coordination Meetings and campaign through virtual meetings to decide a more balanced representation on for Emergency Response in Beirut and on rescheduling and reorganizing the World Heritage List and examine contributing to the rehabilitation of many of the planned activities that the institutional and legal structures cultural heritage in the historic quarters were postponed adapting them to in the region relevant to the heritage the available time, tools and means sites. The meeting that was originally As part of ARC-WH commitment to pursue projects and programmes to of communication. New timelines planned at ARC-WH in Bahrain was were soon agreed, and work began in protect natural heritage sites, the replaced by a 3-day online meeting earnest to start the implementation team continued the implementation attended by WHC and advisory of the already planned and agreed of Phase II of the International bodies, international experts and commitments. The perseverance and Emergency Assistance project representatives from Arab States dedication by the team in face of the entitled “Mitigation of the Hurricane and experts. The final report of the challenges ensured the fulfillment Impacts on Endemic threatened two-year study will be finalized early of its original Action Plan based on plants of Soqutra Archipelago” WH 2021and translated into Arabic. its mandate as a Category 2 Centre Fund. A workshop on Integrating including continued activities and Other highlights of the implemented Cultural Heritage into conservation programmes from previous years and activities included, participation in and developments planning in long-term commitments of ongoing shareourheritage campaign launched Soqutra was carried out at the programmes. Coordination and by WHC within the early months of start of 2020 as well as a follow consultation with the World Heritage the pandemic, preparation for the up meeting for Contribution to the Centre particularly with the Arab Unit publication of an update of World Man and Biosphere. Furthermore, 9
“As part of ARC-WH commitment to pursue projects and programmes to protect natural heritage sites, the team continued the implementation of Phase II of the International Emergency Assistance project entitled “Mitigation of the Hurricane Impacts on Endemic threatened plants of Soqutra Archipelago” WH Fund.”
a comprehensive field study and by promoting the implementation of research on Hawar Island was the World Heritage 1972 Convention, launched in 2020 and should be among Arab State Parties. completed in 2021. Upon the In 2021 and the coming years, the completion of Tabe’a III Report: Social Arab Regional Centre for World and Political changes and its impact Heritage will endeavor to fulfill its on WH Sites. The report is finalized obligations under its Mandate as a for publication in partnership with C2C; upholding the principles and IUCN. n 2020, ARC-WH launched values of the 1972 Convention for a Study for Needs Assessment for World Heritage, developing the natural sites representation and knowledge and skills of professionals priorities in the Arab Region. in Arab State Parties for better This year’s Report highlights some protection of their natural and cultural of ARC-WH main activities and heritage, while expanding its studies, programmes within the main research, and outreach to contribute components of its Action Plan. to the improvement of representation Capacity Building and training are of heritage sites in the Arab region in considered the cornerstone of its the world heritage list. mission, which covered the provision The ability of the Arab Regional of technical and financial support to Centre for World Heritage to realise officials and professionals from State and accomplish its original objectives Parties in their efforts to prepare, as projected in its 2020 Action Plan, identify new sites for nomination despite the difficulties and limitations for the WH List as well as improve imposed by the pandemic, would the protection and management not have been achieved without of the sites already inscribed on the continued guidance, inspiration WH List. The team ensured that and backing from H.E Sheikha Mai while strengthening capacities Al-Khalifa. The management and of professionals in the Arab countries team of ARC-WH also sincerely there was special focus on sites appreciate and value WHC and all on the danger List particularly members of the Governing Board damage to sites in areas under arm for their continued support and conflict. The closer consultation and encouragement. coordination with its main partners all through the pandemic ARC-WH Team strengthened and enhanced it alliance with WHC, Advisory Bodies, State Parties and partners to ensure Dr. Shadia Touqan achieving shared objectives and Director of the Arab Regional Centre goals for protecting the cultural and natural heritage in the Arab Region, for World Heritage ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020
The Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage (ARC-WH) is a BACKGROUND Category 2 Centre under the auspices of UNESCO that was established in 2012 as an autonomous and independent legal entity at the service of Arab States Parties to strengthen the effective implementation of the World Heritage Convention.
Based in the Kingdom of Bahrain, ARC-WH is a non-profit organisation that assists the Arab States towards the conservation, management and promotion of cultural and natural heritage, and acts as a relay to the World Heritage Centre in the Arab region. 11
Petra, Jordan © Editions Gelbart ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 20202018 ARC-WH OUR MISSION
To strengthen the implementation of the World Heritage Convention in the Arab States by providing information, knowledge, and advice to Member States and facilitating coordination and cooperation among stakeholders at the international, national and local levels for the benefit of World Heritage sites in the region.
TOTAL NUMBER OF WORLD HERITAGE SITES IN THE ARAB REGION 86 SITES 13 OBJECTIVES
• Improve the representation of the Arab States properties on the World Heritage List. • Create a network of local and regional experts in the region. • Mobilise regional and international financial support for the preservation of properties. • Increase and promote awareness of World Heritage in Arab region. • Disseminate information, initiatives and programmes concerned with the World Heritage Convention. ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020
To maintain ARC-WH’s mandate in supporting Arab States parties in STRATEGIC achieving a credible representation of World Heritage in the region, and OBJECTIVE: ensuring the protection and safeguarding of properties and sites, ARC- WH Programmes and Activities follow the strategic objectives of the THE FIVE CS World Heritage Convention’s Five Cs:
CAPACITY BUILDING CONSERVATION COMMUNITY COMMUNICATION CREDIBILITY 15
ARC-WH developed integrated regional programmes and activities ARC-WH that promote interconnected and interdisciplinary approaches PROGRAMMES & to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage in order to combine efforts towards enhancing the implementation of the ACTIVITIES World Heritage Convention in the Arab region.
ARC-WH programmes and activities are strategically designed to follow the 1972 World Heritage Convention and aligned with its Strategic Objectives. ARC-WH provides capacity-building programmes on the mechanisms and processes of the World Heritage Convention such as revising Tentative Lists and Nomination processes, knowledge sharing, technical assistance on conservation and development as well as other activities aimed at empowering the Arab States’ heritage professionals’ capabilities in protecting and managing natural and cultural World Heritage sites. ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 17
Ancient Ksour of Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt and Oualata (Mauritania) © Editions Gelbart ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020
1.1 Advising State Parties towards the preparation of Word 1. PROGRAMMES Heritage Nomination and the Harmonisation and Revision of & ACTIVITIES the Tentative List
© Mudhafar Salim ASSESSING THE ECOLOGICAL AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC NATURAL HERITAGE VALUES OF THE HAWAR ISLANDS YEARLONG PROJECT (2020) HAWAR ISLANDS NATURE CONSERVATION
In 2019, ARC-WH, in partnership with Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiques (BACA), Supreme Council for Environment (SCE), Directorate of Marine Control at the Ministry of Work and Municipality Affairs, and other national and regional partners launched a project to highlight the outstanding natural heritage of Hawar Islands (Bahrain).
The report, Assessing the Ecological and Socio-economic Natural Heritage Values of Hawar Islands, was finalised in 2020. It evaluated the ecological and socio-economic baseline of the Hawar Islands, focusing on the biodiversity components of regional and international importance. 19
The Ahwar of Southern Iraq: Refuge of Biodiversity and the Relict Landscape of the Mesopotamian Cities (Iraq) © Mudhafar Salim ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 1. PROGRAMMES 1.2 Supporting the Management of World Heritage Sites & ACTIVITIES
THE JOURNEY OF A WATER TANK: TRANSPORTATION OF WATER TANK TO FERMHIN DRAGON’S BLOOD TREE NURSERY (SOCOTRA) SEPTEMBER 2020 NATURE SOCOTRA ARCHIPELAGO, YEMEN CONSERVATION; COMMUNITY
ARC-WH visited Socotra Archipelago And with this, a second milestone dense crown hung over the pathway. twice in 2020 to monitor the progress has been accomplished. For the first Thanks to the assistance of five and state of conservation of its time in history, a large water tank local men who accompanied the projects, and to maintain a close was transported from Hadibou to transportation from Hadibou, the tank relationship with its partners from the Fermhin which will be instrumental, made it up the winding road (without local community. together with the running water from damaging any local flora) and arrived the Skand Mountain, in supporting the in the Fermhin Plant Nursery. During the second visit in September local endemic Dragon’s Blood Tree to 2020, ARC-WH worked with its local regenerate and thrive. ARC-WH is glad to report that the Socotra Projects Coordinator to find nursery is in good condition. Local a solution for the transportation of The transportation was essential plants are regenerating, and seedlings a large water tank needed for the to Phase II of the International are growing beneath the trees in endemic plant nursery, established in Emergency Assistance project entitled the nursery. Overgrazing by goats the mountainous Fermhin Protected ‘Mitigation of Hurricane Impacts on as been eliminated through fencing Area, land of the iconic Dragon’s Endemic and Threatened Plants of and the relocation of seedlings from Blood Tree (Dracaena cinnabari). Socotra Archipelago’, approved by the the pre-nursery is ongoing. For the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, next step, local community members Previously the local community was and funded by the World Heritage will be hired, trained and supervised engaged in this project and achieved a Fund. Transporting the sizeable water in monitoring and maintaining the milestone by connecting the Fermhin tank up the winding rocky roads of nurseries for 16 months to share Village with a water source located Fermhin is no easy task, especially benefits and achieve long-term 10 km away in the Skand Mountain. when trying to avoid damaging trees sustainability of the project outcomes. The transportation of the pipes up the along the way. mountain was impressively carried out on foot up However, the strenuous There was one Dragon’s Blood Tree task was worth it. For the first time in in particular that the team wanted history, the local community finally has to avoid damaging during the fresh running water in their village. transportation since its intricately 21
INITIATION OF PHASE II OF THE MITIGATION OF HURRICANE IMPACTS ON ENDEMIC AND THREATENED PLANTS OF SOCOTRA ARCHIPELAGO NATURE 2020 SOCOTRA ARCHIPELAGO, YEMEN CONSERVATION; COMMUNITY
In 2020, the UNESCO World Heritage disasters. The Project Phase I Centre (WHC) and ARC-WH entered concluded in 2019 with the creation of into a second contract to enforce its two fenced plant nurseries targeting technical support to the Environment the regeneration of the Socotran Protection Authority (EPA) of Frankincense tree (Boswellia elongate) Socotra, Yemen, and implement the and the Dragoon Blood tree (Dracaena International Emergency Assistance cinnabari). financed by the UNESCO World Heritage Fund. Phase II of the project Phase II is foreseen to be was launched in order to complete the implemented from 2020 – 2022, establishment of two plant nurseries with a long-term vision of reaching and to support the regeneration of sustainable regeneration of endemic the iconic endemic flora of the natural and threatened plant species of the World Heritage Site of the Socotra Socotra Archipelago. A team of four Archipelago. local community members will be actively involved in the regeneration The Archipelago was struck by of each nursery. The team will be three cyclones between 2015 and hired and trained by ARC-WH’s 2018. Additionally, the endemic Socotra Projects Coordinator in the fauna species have faced further documentation, monitoring and long- pressure from continuous overgrazing term maintenance of the nurseries, and development activities. The contributing to the protection of the International Emergency Assistance Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of project is implemented in two areas the World Heritage Site, for current – the Protected Areas of Homhil and future generations. and Fermhin –which were critically damaged by the impact of natural ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 1. PROGRAMMES 1.2 Supporting the Management of World Heritage Sites & ACTIVITIES
CONTRIBUTION TO PHASE I OF TRANSLATION OF THE UPDATED THE TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE VERSION OPERATIONAL PROGRAMME ON MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES INTO ARABIC PLANNING FOR SELECTED 1 SEPTEMBER 2020 HERITAGE SITES IN TUNISIA CULTURE-NATURE JULY 2020-ONGOING 2021 CAPACITY BUILDING; CULTURE CONSERVATION; COMMUNICATION; ONLINE VIA ZOOM CREDIBILITY CAPACITY BUILDING; CONSERVATION The latest version of the Operational Guidelines for the implementation In partnership with the Institut documentation and data collection, in of the World Heritage Convention National du Patrimoine in Tunisia, addition to identifying management is now available in Arabic on the ARC-WH and the World Monuments objectives using an integrated and World Heritage Centre website and Fund developed a Technical Assistance cooperative approach at the level of ARC-WH’s website. The Operational Programme to improve management each site. Guidelines (Arabic) has not been planning for three heritage sites in updated since the previous text was Tunisia. The sites selected by the Coordination meetings discussed the published online in February 2005. national authorities include the World revision of various steps proposed Heritage Sites of Dougga/Thugga, by the working group, as well as This version of the Guidelines has Kairouan, and Medina of Sfax, the outcomes from their field visits, been translated, published and printed currently on the Tentative List. Phase meetings organised at the site with support and funding provided by I of the project was implemented level, and the methodology of local ARC-WH on 1 September 2020. and national cooperation with the between July and December 2020 This translation is crucial for providing and consisted of a series of online stakeholders involved in preparing and implementing management planning. support for Arabic-speaking heritage workshops and coordination meetings professionals and experts to safeguard that were held online due to the Due to the compulsory social and protect cultural and natural social distancing restrictions related to distancing restrictions, participants heritage in the Arab region. the global pandemic. could not finalise the fieldwork and During the workshops, participants meet with all concerned stakeholders, received theoretical training on the which led to the project’s delay. The needed mechanisms and concepts project is currently continuing and related to site management should be finalised by the end of planning and monitoring. The 2021. training programme was initiated by general management principles, LAUNCH OF THE UPDATED VERSION EXPERT MEETING ON NEEDS OF THE ARC-WH APPLICATION FOR ASSESSMENT FOR NATURAL TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE HERITAGE IN THE ARAB REGION 19 OCTOBER 2020 27 OCTOBER 2020 CULTURE-NATURE ONLINE VIA ZOOM CAPACITY BUILDING NATURE CONSERVATION
To ensure that ARC-WH provides the Arab States Parties with the ARC-WH and its advisor and consultant Data from the Third Cycle of the effective assistance and support for Mr. Tarek Abulhawa conducted a Periodic Reporting of the Arab region the conservation and management of Natural Heritage Needs Assessment and the Gap Analysis conducted by cultural and natural World Heritage initiative, which included an online ICOMOS and ARC-WH will contribute Sites, ARC-WH updated its application Expert Meeting on the Needs to determining the gaps in natural form for Technical Assistance. Assessment for Natural Heritage in World Heritage in the Arab region and the Arab Region organised on 27 will be summarised in a final report. ARC-WH uploaded the application October 2020. The online meeting was onto its website on 19 October attended by representatives from the 2020 and is accessible in all three World Heritage Centre (WHC), IUCN’s working languages (Arabic, English World Heritage Programme as well and French). ARC-WH also shared this as its Regional Office for West Asia, form with all Arab States Focal Points. UNEP West Asia, ICOMOS, the African Due to the COVID-19 crisis, ARC-WH World Heritage Fund (AWHF), along has had to limit its capacity building with regional experts and regional Site workshops onsite. Therefore, this digital Managers from mixed and natural World application will help ensure constant Heritage Sites in the Arab region. communication between ARC-WH and During the meeting, speakers reported Focal Points of World Heritage Sites in on the state of natural World Heritage light of these restrictions. Sites, on both a global and regional level, and provided overviews of threats that natural heritage sites face. The discussions involved navigating a way forward through these increasing pressures, including better management, preservation and institutional cooperation. ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 25
Medina of Tétouan (formerly known as Titawin), Morocco © Editions Gelbart ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 1. PROGRAMMES 1.2 Supporting the Management of World Heritage Sites & ACTIVITIES
TABE’A III REPORT: SOCIAL AND POLITICAL CHANGES AND ITS IMPACTS ON WORLD HERITAGE SYSTEMS 2020 NATURE CONSERVATION; COMMUNICATION
In partnership with the IUCN World Heritage Programme, the publication Tabe’a III: Nature – culture linkages, conflict and climate change impacts on natural heritage in the Arab region entered in its final stage before completion.
The Tabe’a III Report includes three new thematic areas in the Arab region and the challenges and opportunities faced by natural heritage, such as impacts of extreme weather conditions and culture-nature interlinkages from a global and regional perspective, as well as the impacts of conflict on natural heritage sites.
Additionally, the publication provides an update on thematic activities by the Tabe’a Programme and the natural and mixed heritage sites since the previous Tabe’a II Report. It also includes a focus on developments regarding the national Tentative Lists in the Arab region. 27
Ichkeul National Park, Tunisia © Editions Gelbart ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 1. PROGRAMMES 1.3 Supporting World Heritage Sites in Danger & ACTIVITIES
ORGANISATION OF A WORKSHOP ON THE MECHANISMS AND CONCEPTS OF THE WORLD HERITAGE CONVENTION AND RISKS MANAGEMENT 23-27 FEBRUARY 2020 ARC-WH PREMISES CULTURE CAPACITY BUILDING
In cooperation with ICCROM-ATHAR and shed light on fundamental topics Follow-up and continued Regional Conservation Centre in related to heritage conservation, cooperation with Yemeni Heritage Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, ARC- including natural heritage, and the Professionals WH organised a capacity building World Heritages List in Danger. workshop on the Mechanisms and Moreover, the workshop also focused During August and September 2020, Concepts of the World Heritage on monitoring and preserving World ARC-WH held several meetings and Convention and Risks Management at Heritage Sites by preparing reports a capacity building workshop with its premises in Manama, Bahrain for on the state of conservation and Site Managers and practitioners a team of 12 heritage professionals other monitoring mechanisms. in the Old City of Sana’a and and Site Managers from Yemen. The Seyoun - Hadhramout, Yemen. training was conducted by ARC- A field visit was organised to the The workshops and meetings were WH and an expert from ICCROM in UNESCO World Heritage Sites attended by the representatives of World Heritage, risk prevention and of ‘Qal’at al-Bahrain – Ancient the General Organisation for the conservation of cultural heritage in Harbour and Capital of Dilmun’ to Protection of Historic Cities in Yemen the event of disasters and conflict. provide the participants with first- (GOPHCY), the General Organisation hand knowledge of the state of of Antiquities and Museums (GOAM) The workshop was held from 23 conservation, as well as administrative as well as the Environmental to 27 February 2020 and aimed at measures undertaken by Bahraini Protection Agency (EPA). Participants enhancing the capacities of Yemeni authorities towards the protection were further familiarised with heritage professionals concerning and conservation of the site. The the implementation of the World the basic concepts and principles workshop also included training on Heritage Convention, the concept of the World Heritage Convention, the revision of the Tentative List of Outstanding Universal Value and improving the protection and and the Retrospective Inventory (OUV) and the role and procedures management of World Heritage Sites. to document World Heritage Sites regarding the national Tentative List. The workshop also addressed issues in Yemen in accordance with the related to the management and Operational Guidelines. The mission in Yemen also allowed preservation of World Heritage Sites for the assessment of the Old City 29
CONTRIBUTION TO THE ONLINE WEBINAR ‘THE INVINCIBLE CITY: SOCIETY IN CULTURAL HERITAGE RECOVERY’ 21 OCTOBER 2020 ONLINE VIA ZOOM CULTURE COMMUNICATION
ARC-WH contributed to the webinar to address the growing concerns of of Sana’a that was threatened by on The invincible city: Society in armed conflict and natural disasters torrential rains that led to extensive cultural heritage recovery organised that threaten heritage in the Arab damage of the historic city. ARC- by the Ministry of Culture and region. Additionally, ARC-WH talked WH visited sites of the devastation National Heritage of the Republic of about the activities carried out by the and consulted with site management Poland and the National Institute of Centre in collaboration with UNESCO regarding the emergency measures Cultural Heritage together with the and the Advisory Bodies, to address taken to provide first aid response to World Heritage Centre UNESCO, the the challenges affecting the region. the affected areas and buildings. International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) and the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM).
The webinar was held on 21 October 2020 and invited a group of international experts in the protection of World Heritage to discuss the revival of historic cities devastated by war in the 20th century and to address the challenges that endanger heritage during times of destruction and conflict.
ARC-WH contributed to the second panel by discussing ARC-WH’s role in the region and the various courses of action taken by ARC-WH ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 1. PROGRAMMES 1.3 Supporting World Heritage Sites in Danger & ACTIVITIES
ONLINE MEETING: WORLD ATTENDED THE ONLINE TECHNICAL HERITAGE IN DANGER IN THE ARAB MEETING FOR SYRIAN PROPERTIES STATES REGION PROCESSES AND ON THE LIST OF WORLD HERITAGE ACTIONS IN DANGER 23 NOVEMBER 19 NOVEMBER 2020 ONLINE VIA ZOOM ONLINE VIA ZOOM CULTURE CULTURE CONSERVATION; CREDIBILITY CAPACITY BUILDING; CONSERVATION
On 23 November, ARC-WH in Desired of States Of Conservation cooperation with UNESCO World (DSCOR) for the removal of On 19 November 2020 ARC-WH Heritage Centre (WHC) organised an properties from the World Heritage attended the online technical in the online meeting on the World Heritage List in Danger document, and the online technical meeting for Syrian in Danger in the Arab States Region, corresponding corrective measures. properties on the List of World Heritage Processes and Actions. Participants Additionally, discussions addressed in Danger organised by the UNESCO from Arab States Parties, including the main outcomes of the Periodic World Heritage Centre (WHC), with National Focal Points and Site Reporting process in the Arab States support from the Italian Government Managers, as well as representatives concerning sites inscribed on the and the World Heritage Fund. The from WHC, ARC-WH, ICOMOS and Danger List. meeting aimed at explaining the UNESCO field offices, met online to process for the implementation of the discuss the mechanisms, functions The meeting also highlighted the Desired State of Conservation for the and procedures of the List of World successful removal of the site of removal of Syrian World Heritage Sites Heritage in Danger, as well as the the Birthplace of Jesus: Church from the List of World Heritage in main outcomes of the Third Cycle of the Nativity and the Pilgrimage Danger (DSOCR). of the Periodic Reporting for the Route, Bethlehem (Palestine), from The Ancient City of Damascus (Syria) Arab Region concerning properties the Danger List in 2019, as well as was used as a case study to examine inscribed on the List of World lessons learned from this experience, the progress achieved in implementing Heritage in Danger. together with other examples. protection and conservation activities The meeting’s primary objectives at the site. The meeting discussed were to provide participants with a the potential technical proposal for clear overview of the functionality the corrective measures of removal and procedures of the World Heritage from the List in Danger of the Ancient List in Danger to respond effectively City of Damascus. The meeting was to threats and factors facing attended by stakeholders of the World endangered properties, as well as Heritage Site, local Site Managers the planning and preparation of the and representatives from WHC, the UNESCO Office in Beirut, ICOMOS, ICCROM and ARC-WH. 31
Ancient City of Damascus, Syria © Editions Gelbart ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 1. PROGRAMMES 1.3 Supporting World Heritage Sites in Danger & ACTIVITIES
ATTENDED THE ONLINE TECHNICAL MEETING FOR LIBYA PROPERTIES ON THE LIST OF WORLD HERITAGE IN DANGER 25 NOVEMBER 2020 ONLINE VIA ZOOM CULTURE CAPACITY BUILDING; CONSERVATION
On 25 November 2020 ARC- WH attended the online technical meeting for Libya properties on the List of World Heritage in Danger organised by the UNESCO World Heritage Centre (WHC), with support from the Italian Government and the World Heritage Fund. The meeting explained the process for implementing the Desired State of Conservation for the removal of 21 Libyan World Heritage Sites from the List of World Heritage in Danger (DSOCR).
The Old Town of Ghadamès TOTAL NUMBER OF (Libya) was used as a case study WORLDSITES HERITAGE to examine the technical proposal SITES IN DANGER IN for the corrective measures of removal. The meeting was attended THE ARAB REGION by stakeholders of the World Heritage Site, local Site Managers and representatives from WHC, the UNESCO Office in Rabat, ICOMOS, IN ICCROM and ARC-WH. DANGER 33 1. PROGRAMMES 1.4 Developing and Fostering Synergies & ACTIVITIES
ORGANISATION OF THE SECOND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE FOURTH CONTRIBUTION TO THE MAN AND NATIONAL REDLIST WORKSHOP INTERNATIONAL WATERBIRDS BIOSPHERE (MAB) FOLLOW-UP CENSUS IN BAHRAIN MEETING BETWEEN ARC-WH, 12-14 JANUARY 2020 15-17 JANUARY 2020 THE SUPREME COUNCIL FOR ARC-WH PREMISES ENVIRONMENT (SCE) AND THE ARC-WH PREMISES NATURE BAHRAIN NATIONAL TEAM NATURE CAPACITY BUILDING; 21 JANUARY 2020 CONSERVATION CONSERVATION ARC-WH PREMISES NATURE CAPACITY BUILDING; ARC-WH and the Supreme Council for ARC-WH and the Supreme Council for CONSERVATION Environment (SCE) held the Second Environment (SCE) implemented the National RedList Workshop from 12 to fourth annual mid-winter counts that 14 January 2020, at ARC-WH premises targeted several vital wetlands and On 21 January 2020, a technical in Manama, Bahrain. The workshop coastal areas in Bahrain. This activity follow-up meeting was held at provided additional outcomes produced forms part of the annual national ARC-WH’s premises in Manama, from the previous RedList Assessment programme of waterbird documentation Bahrain. It was organised between Workshop held in February 2015, initiated in 2017. The data gathered ARC-WH, the Supreme Council for during which the conservation status also contributed to the International Environment (SCE) and experts of more than 20 species in Bahrain Waterbirds Censuses (IWC) monitoring from the University of Bahrain to was assessed on a regional level by the programme of Bahrain. discuss the nomination file of the Bahrain national team. From 15 to 17 January 2020, a field Hawar Islands as a potential Man and During the workshop, the national team from both institutions acquired Biosphere (MAB) Reserve. This is the team reviewed species from the important observations on Bahrain’s second follow-up meeting regarding RedList Assessment Workshop and coastal birds and wetlands. One of the development of the nomination selected and evaluated 24 priority the key findings was discovering a for the MAB Reserve. Participants species with technical guidance from large breeding colony of Socotra collected different contributions and an international expert. Cormorant (Phalacrocorax nigrogularis), data from the Bahrain National Team a threatened species categorised as and discussed the reports’ technical A technical report will be published in ‘Vulnerable (VU)’, in Al-Jarim Island, and scientific components. 2021. It will include the assessments 20 km north of Bahrain. of selected species and revisions and updated status of the assessed species during the first workshop in 2015. ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 35
Medina of Tunis (Tunisia) © Editions Gelbart ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 1. PROGRAMMES 1.4 Developing and Fostering Synergies & ACTIVITIES
THE CULMINATION OF THE PARTICIPATION IN THE REGIONAL SOQOTRA HERITAGE PROJECT WORKSHOP FOR DEVELOPING THE “INTEGRATING CULTURAL WATERBIRDS STRATEGY IN THE HERITAGE INTO CONSERVATION ARABIAN PENINSULA AND DEVELOPMENT PLANNING ON 1-5 MARCH 2020 SOQOTRA” FINAL WORKSHOP SHARJAH, UAE 2-6 FEBRUARY 2020 NATURE ARC-WH PREMISES CONSERVATION; COMMUNICATION CULTURE – NATURE CAPACITY BUILDING; CONSERVATION; COMMUNICATION; From 1 to 5 March 2020, the COMMUNITY Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) in cooperation with Wetlands International and BirdLife As part of a partnership programme phase (if future funding is secured). The International organised the Regional funded by the British Council Cultural participants’ extensive documentation Workshop for Developing the Protection Fund, and implemented and experiences were showcased during Waterbirds Strategy in the Arabian in collaboration between the Royal a short film presented on 6 February Peninsula in Sharjah, UAE. Botanic Garden in Edinburgh, the 2020 at ARC-WH during an official Freie Universität Berlin and ARC-WH, closing ceremony attended by a public ARC-WH assisted participants in the Soqotra Heritage Project (CPL- audience and the HE the Ambassador waterbird identification and fieldwork 185-16 - Integrating Cultural Heritage to the Republic of Yemen well as his methodologies and highlighted into Conservation and Development Consul and Cultural Attaché. its experiences in conducting the Planning on Soqotra) was launched International Water Bird Census in 2018 and reached the culmination The Soqotra Heritage Project was (IWC) for Bahrain (2017-2020), of its first project phase marked, by designed to document and safeguard in cooperation with the Supreme the fourth workshop held from 2 to 6 the cultural heritage of the Archipelago Council of Environment (SCE). February 2020 at ARC-WH’s premises by creating a database that will Additionally, ARC-WH also discussed in Manama, Bahrain. be integrated within biodiversity how the success of this case-study conservation and development could be potentially implemented in Participants consisted of a team of planning. The project sought to other countries. Socotries who received training during enhance local knowledge by organising the past two years to document practical and conceptual training for a One of the workshop’s main goals intangible and tangible cultural heritage. team of Soqotries to enable them to was to establish cooperation The fourth workshop consisted of conduct informed technical fieldwork between regional stakeholders to practical exercises and modules that and enrich the scientific research on the enhance conservation procedures, summarised what had been achieved rich cultural heritage of the infamous documentation and monitoring so far and planning for the next project natural World Heritage Site. techniques to protect the Arab region’s unique natural heritage. 37 1. PROGRAMMES 1.5 Thematic Programmes on Culture-Nature & ACTIVITIES
ADVANCED WORKSHOP ON STRENGTHENING CAPACITIES OF WORLD HERITAGE PROFESSIONALS IN THE ARAB REGION FOR CULTURAL AND MIXED SITES 7, 8, 10 DECEMBER 2020 ONLINE VIA ZOOM CULTURE-NATURE CAPACITY BUILDING
On 7, 8 and 10 December 2020, ARC- The workshop’s programme was Other themes covered were vernacular WH, in collaboration with ICOMOS structured according to current architecture in the Arab region, International, organised an advanced challenges confronting World Heritage the nomination process including version of the Strengthening Capacities and focused on the participating upstream, Tentative Listing, and of World Heritage Professionals in the experts’ feedback who conveyed this nomination dossier preparation. The Arab Region for Cultural and Mixed vital information following the gaps felt workshop also introduced the updated sites capacity-building programme, held during their experience working with Arabic version of the Operational online due to the global pandemic. the World Heritage Convention in the Guidelines and the main vocabulary Arab region. to be used by the Arab States Parties, The World Heritage professionals, since its translation in 2005. previously trained by ARC-WH, Impact Assessment was a highlighted ICOMOS and the other Advisory Bodies topic during the workshop since there during two workshops, attended this were considerable concerns raised advanced capacity building course. among the experts regarding the The first workshop was held in 2018 adverse effects of development in in Manama, Bahrain for anglophone World Heritage properties and their speaking experts, while the second vicinities. The workshop also examined was held in Rabat Morocco in 2019 for communication procedures with the francophone speakers. World Heritage Centre concerning issues such as the state of conservation reporting and Reactive Monitoring Process, and global challenges such as Climate Change and the effects of COVID-19 on World Heritage Sites. ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 39
Tyre, Lebanon © Editions Gelbart ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020
2.1 Joint Organisation of the Third Cycle of the Periodic 2. ACTIVITIES Reporting in the Arab States Regional Meeting of Focal Points IN FOCUS for the preparation of a Regional Action Plan
JOINT ORGANISATION OF THE THIRD CYCLE OF THE PERIODIC REPORTING IN THE ARAB STATES REGIONAL MEETING OF FOCAL POINTS FOR THE PREPARATION OF A REGIONAL ACTION PLAN 20-21 JULY 2020 ONLINE VIA ZOOM CULTURE AND NATURE CAPACITY BUILDING; CREDIBILITY
From 20 to 21 July 2020, ARC-WH, the start of the Periodic Reporting These exchanges and interventions in close collaboration with the World process, following the 42nd session of were essential to the contribution and Heritage Centre (WHC), organised the the World Heritage Committee in 2018, finalisation of the six-year Regional Third Cycle of the Periodic Reporting to fill out Section I and Section II of the Action Plan, which addresses the Arab in the Arab States Regional Meeting Questionnaire. region’s priorities and will be presented of Focal Points for the preparation of to the next World Heritage Committee a regional Action Plan. The two-day Since the completion and submission session, for consideration and adoption. online meeting aimed at engaging with of the Questionnaires in 2019, WHC The States Parties will play a leading Arab States representatives, National and ARC-WH have collaborated with role in implementing the Action Plan Focal Points and Site Managers to experts to extract and analyse data and at the regional and national level, propose recommendations in view of results from the responses to compile supported by WHC, ARC-WH and the preparing the Regional Action Plan, a comprehensive regional report. The Advisory Bodies. which will be implemented in the next summaries and main objectives of six years. The meeting was organised the results and outcomes were then The drafts of Section I, Section II and through an online communication presented and consulted with the the final report structure, along with platform to adapt to the global participants during open discussions the Monitoring Indicators and draft pandemic. Over a hundred participants that sparked participants’ feedback and regional Action Plan were shared by from the Arab region participated proposals, which will help address the ARC-WH with the World Heritage in the meeting, along with the needs of the Arab region. Centre (WHC). Following an internal Advisory Bodies of the World Heritage review by the World Heritage Centre, Convention, and UNESCO Field Offices the final document will be submitted in the Arab States. to the World Heritage Committee at its 44th session for approval. National Focal Points and World Heritage Site Managers have worked closely with WHC and ARC-WH since 41
Archaeological Site of Sabratha, Libya © Editions Gelbart ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020
2.2 Joint organisation of Online Expert Meeting: Identifying 2. ACTIVITIES the potential of the Arab States region for a more balanced IN FOCUS World Heritage List (Gap Analysis Study)
JOINT ORGANISATION OF ONLINE EXPERT MEETING: IDENTIFYING THE POTENTIAL OF THE ARAB STATES REGION FOR A MORE BALANCED WORLD HERITAGE LIST (GAP ANALYSIS STUDY) 6-7, 9, 13, JULY 2020 ONLINE VIA ZOOM CULTURE CAPACITY BUILDING; CONSERVATION; CREDIBILITY
ARC-WH in cooperation with the Discussions included ways in which International Council on Monuments Arab State Parties could identify and Sites (ICOMOS) organised an potential sites from different historical online international experts meeting, periods and underrepresented themes held from 6-7, 9, 13 July 2020, to and typologies, such as the heritage of discuss the Gap Analysis Study of World architectural modernities, vernacular Heritage Sites in the Arab region. The heritage and oases, and Cultural meeting also examined the outputs of Landscapes. Experts also considered the a questionnaire prepared that identify institutional and legal frameworks that regional gaps and elements that lead to must be taken into consideration to the underrepresentation of sites from enhance the capacities of Arab States the Arab region. in contributing to the achievement of a more balanced World Heritage List. The online meeting for the Gap One of the main outcomes of the Gap Analysis Study promoted dialogue Analysis will be the production of a and exchange between regional and Regional Gap Report that is currently international experts who shared being finalised by ICOMOS. Translation opinions and experiences towards of the report into Arabic will take place the enhancement of protection and in 2021. management of cultural and mixed heritage in the Arab region. 43
Aflaj Irrigation Systems of Oman © Editions Gelbart ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 2. ACTIVITIES 2.3 Publication of World Heritage of the Arab States Book – IN FOCUS Second Edition
PUBLICATION OF WORLD HERITAGE OF THE ARAB STATES BOOK – SECOND EDITION 2020 CULTURE – NATURE COMMUNICATION
Due to global travel restrictions enacted to prevent the spread of COVID-19, photographer Jean-Jacques Gelbart, commissioned by ARC-WH to photograph the latest inscribed World Heritage Sites in the Arab region, was unable to visit the last remaining countries to finalise the second edition of World Heritage of the Arab States.
The book has been postponed until international travel resumes.
ARC-WH has worked closely with the TOTAL NUMBER OF Arab League Educational, Cultural and WORLD HERITAGE Scientific Organisation (ALECSO) to CULTURE SITES IN coordinate each new site’s description THE ARAB REGION texts from States Parties. The English and French versions of the text have been completed, and the Arabic translation is being finalised. 78 ALECSO also assisted in facilitating the photographic field missions of Gelbart by coordinating each visit with the Arab State Party concerned. CULTURE SITES 45 2. ACTIVITIES 2.4 Publication of the book on World Heritage Cities in the IN FOCUS Arab Region 2.5 Organisation of the webinar on the Cultural Heritage and People – Building resilience in the Superimposed Trauma
PUBLICATION OF THE BOOK ON ORGANISATION OF THE WEBINAR WORLD HERITAGE CITIES IN THE ON THE CULTURAL HERITAGE AND ARAB REGION PEOPLE – BUILDING RESILIENCE IN 2020 THE SUPERIMPOSED TRAUMA CULTURE 21 DECEMBER 2020 COMMUNICATION ONLINE VIA ZOOM CONSERVATION; COMMUNICATION; COMMUNITY ARC-WH has continued to work on the publication of World Heritage Cities in the Arab States which began On 21 December 2020 ARC-WH held The webinar welcomed a diverse in late 2019. The final publication will a webinar on Cultural Heritage and panel of experts who proposed contain articles and analyse the urban People - building resilience in the reflections on ways forward and heritage of the selected historic cities superimposed trauma that welcomed sustainable solutions for heritage in the Arab Region presented during viewers worldwide. The webinar reconstruction and recovery the public lectures held at ARC-WH was organised in the framework of challenges. The panellists also from 2018 to 2019. the Conference on integrated post- considered the communities that have disaster reconstruction of cultural suffered from significant economic The publication’s full text will be ready heritage – social, economic and ruin and social trauma faced with for final editing and proofreading by psychological aspects of recovery that even more significant threats to their the end of December 2020. Design ARC-WH intends to organise in the heritage and consequences from and printing of the publication have presence of participants and speakers COVID-19. been postponed to 2021 due to the once social distancing restrictions are The webinar is the first of three delays caused by the global pandemic. lifted. The Conference’s programme similar events that will be organised includes various prominent experts to enlarge the initial scope of the and researchers who have already Conference for the discourse on the contributed to the publication that challenges of recovery and resilience will be finalised at the forthcoming following trauma and disaster and Conference. their impact on communities.
Viewers can access the webinar by going to arcwh.org ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 47
Samarra Archaeological City, Iraq © Editions Gelbart ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 3. COPING WITH COVID-19 COMMUNICATION AND AWARENESS RAISING
PARTICIPATION IN THE LAUNCH OF ARC-WH E-LIBRARY #SHAREOURHERITAGE CAMPAIGN SPRING 2020 LAUNCHED BY UNESCO CULTURE-NATURE 1 APRIL – 31 MAY 2020 COMMUNICATION CULTURE-NATURE COMMUNICATION; COMMUNITY ARC-WH successfully launched its e-library in the spring of 2020. Books As COVID-19 spread across the The videos were posted online from available have been partially scanned globe, many cultural industries and 1 April to 31 May 2020 and remain for those interested in visiting and World Heritage Sites were negatively accessible on ARC-WH’s website and utilitsing ARC-WH’s library at its impacted by social distancing social media platforms. premises in Manama, Bahrain. ARC- restrictions and site closures. WH’s publications and translated ARC-WH also prepared a Consequently, many cultural and works are also accessible on its questionnaire that was shared with natural sites that rely heavily on e-library. global tourism for financial support all World Heritage Site Focal Points towards management conservation and Site Managers in the Arab region This online platform is an important and upkeep soon found themselves in to collect data on the impacts of tool for one of ARC-WH’s key need of support. COVID-19 and the challenges faced objectives of knowledge transfer by properties. The responses received and dissemination of information on In response to this crisis, UNESCO by ARC-WH were prepared in an World Heritage and conservation. The launched the social media campaign assessment report and shared with digitalisation of the library (accessible #ShareourHeritage to promote the World Heritage Centre for future from the ARC-WH website) was international solidarity, assist the collaboration and joint actions to particularly essential since it occurred heritage sectors and institutions, and assist the most impacted sites. in conjunction with COVID-19, which promote cultural heritage and cultural has severely restricted physical education during mass confinement. movement and changed the landscape of heritage training and learning. ARC-WH actively contributed to the global social media campaign by requesting video testimonials from designated World Heritage Site Managers from the Arab region. The videos showcased how sites and their surrounding local communities were affected by COVID-19 and revealed the site management’s commitment towards mitigating the negative impacts as much as possible. 49 4. OUTREACH AND Contributing to the Rehabilitation of COMMUNITY Beirut’s Cultural Heritage
Following the devastating explosion that ripped through Beirut, Lebanon, on 4 August 2020, the international community rallied behind the people of Beirut as they attempted to rebuild their homes and lives in the wake of the destruction. Many historic districts and cultural properties were also significantly damaged from the blast.
ARC-WH pledged financial support to contribute to the National Museum of Beirut and technical assistance, and committed its expertise in urban heritage recovery, towards the rehabilitation of the historic core of Beirut. ARC-WH took part in three international coordination meetings organised by UNESCO to address the recovery of Beirut, and how the international community could contribute to the safeguarding of its cultural heritage ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 4. OUTREACH AND Contributing to the Rehabilitation of COMMUNITY Beirut’s Cultural Heritage
UNESCO COORDINATION MEETING PARTICIPATION IN THE SECOND ORGANIZATION OF COORDINATION FOR EMERGENCY RESPONSE IN UNESCO COORDINATION FOR MEETING BETWEEN ARC-WH BEIRUT EMERGENCY RESPONSE IN BEIRUT AND LEBANON’S DIRECTORATE 10 AUGUST 2020 2 SEPTEMBER 2020 GENERAL OF ANTIQUITIES (DGA) MEETINGS HELD ONLINE VIA ZOOM MEETINGS HELD ONLINE VIA ZOOM 6 OCTOBER 2020 CULTURE CULTURE MEETINGS HELD ONLINE VIA ZOOM CULTURE CONSERVATION; COMMUNITY CONSERVATION; COMMUNITY CONSERVATION; COMMUNITY
In response to the tragic explosion On 2 September 2020 ARC-WH that occurred in Beirut, Lebanon, on participated in the second UNESCO ARC-WH and the Directorate General 4 August 2020, UNESCO organised a Coordination for Emergency Response of Antiquities (DGA) of Lebanon meeting on 10 August 2020 that was in Beirut. The meeting aimed at organised an online coordination attended by the Directorate General continuing the consultation between meeting on 6 October 2020 to of Antiquities (DGA) of the Ministry of international organisations to assist discuss potential collaboration on Culture of Lebanon and representatives local intuitions, authorities and the the safeguarding and recovery of from ALIPH, ARC-WH, Blue Shield local community for safeguarding Beirut’s cultural heritage damaged International, ICCROM, ICOM and Beirut’s cultural heritage. The from the blast in August 2020. ICOMOS. The meeting aimed to initiate meeting also aimed at identifying was Both institutions also talked about consultation between international tragically damaged during the blast. efforts being carried out by local and specialised organisations to identify the international partners on the ground. necessary steps for coordinated support The meeting included ways in which for local intuitions, authorities and the ARC-WH could support and facilitate local community to safeguard Beirut’s technical assistance to safeguard and cultural heritage to identity what was recover Beirut’s cultural heritage. impacted by the blast.
The shockwaves of the explosion damaged several historic districts, museums and galleries including the National Museum, Sursock Museum and the Archaeological Museum of the American University in Beirut. The historic districts of Gemmayzeh and Mar-Mikhaël were also damaged, and the Malerie Marfa gallery and Galerie Tanit gallery were destroyed. 51
THIRD UNESCO COORDINATION MEETING FOR EMERGENCY RESPONSE ON CULTURE IN BEIRUT 22 OCTOBER 2020 MEETINGS HELD ONLINE VIA ZOOM CULTURE CONSERVATION; COMMUNITY
On 22 October 2020 UNESCO organised the third meeting to continue the mobilisation of local and international partners actively safeguarding and contributing to the revitalisation of the cultural sector of Beirut. Participants were updated on the progress of interventions and priorities in the field. The meeting aimed at facilitating the coordination of interventions and prioritisation, as well as the finalisation of UNESCO’s International Action Plan for Culture in Beirut.
ARC-WH reaffirmed its commitment towards the preservation and recovery of built cultural heritage in Beirut and informed UNESCO about its continued coordination with the DGA in Lebanon, as well as is mobilisation efforts with other stakeholders in advising for the recovery of urban heritage of the most affected area.
© Ghassan Chemali ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 53
Portuguese City of Mazagan (El Jadida), Morocco © Editions Gelbart ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 20202019 5. PARTNERSHIP AND COLLABORATION
PARTICIPATION IN THE 2ND EXPERT DRAFTING GROUP MEETING ON THE REFORM OF THE WORLD HERITAGE NOMINATION PROCESS 12-16 JANUARY 2020 PARIS, FRANCE CULTURE CREDIBILITY
From 12 to 16 January 2020 ARC- amendments were agreed upon by the WH participated in the 2nd Expert expert group, a background document Drafting Group Meeting on the was prepared to be submitted to the Reform of the World Heritage ad hoc working group proceeding the Nomination Process held at UNESCO subsequent 44th session of the World in Paris, France. The meeting Heritage Committee. A final draft of discussed the operationalisation of the amended Operational Guidelines the reform previously proposed by will also be submitted. the ad hoc working group, and the previous Tunisia Expert Meeting on the Nomination Reform.
Several amendments were proposed for the current nomination process, notably the Preliminary Assessment, as a mandatory procedure. The meeting also discussed the additions and changes proposed for the Operational Guidelines text to ensure more coherency and accuracy regarding the proposed amendments from the previous meeting held in 2019.
The Drafting Group continued communicating and reflecting on the proposed changes following the meeting online. After the final draft that included the proposed 55
PARTICIPATION IN THE HERITAGE CONTRIBUTION TO MSC IN URBAN CONTEXTS: IMPACTS PROGRAMME IN CONSERVATION OF DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS ON AND MANAGEMENT OF CULTURAL WORLD HERITAGE PROPERTIES IN HERITAGE CITIES 19 FEBRUARY 14-17 JANUARY 2020 UNIVERSITY OF SHARJAH, UNITED KYUSHU UNIVERSITY FUKUOKA, ARAB EMIRATES JAPAN CULTURE CULTURE CAPACITY BUILDING; CAPACITY BUILDING; CONSERVATION COMMUNICATION
ARC-WH was among 16 experts from ARC-WH was invited by ICCROM- five World Heritage regions invited ATHAR Regional Conservation Centre, to participate in the meeting on based in Sharjah, UAE, to contribute Heritage in Urban Contexts: Impacts to the Master’s Programme (MSc) in of Development Projects on World Conservation and Management of Heritage properties in Cities, and was Cultural Heritage. The programme jointly organised by Japan’s Agency was established in collaboration for Cultural Affairs and Kyushu between ICCROM and the University University in cooperation with the of Sharjah. ARCWH contributed to UNESCO World Heritage Centre, two sessions that covered World ICOMOS and ICCROM. The meeting Heritage by teaching students about was held from 14 to 17 January 2020 the World Heritage Convention’s at Kyushu University Fukuoka, Japan general framework and its processes (ARC-WH attended via Zoom). and mechanisms.
Experts discussed establishing a The first session was conducted at methodology towards the identification the University of Sharjah. Thanks to and evaluation of values of World the fruitful collaboration between Heritage properties in urban ARC-WH and ICCROM-ATHAR within contexts. Other areas of deliberation the general framework of cooperation included managing heritage in urban between the two organisations, frameworks with particular attention these sessions were successfully on World Heritage properties, heritage implemented. conservation and management, as well as the implementation of the Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) Recommendations and additional tools and mechanisms that could be utilised. ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 5. PARTNERSHIP AND COLLABORATION
PARTICIPATION IN THE ALECSO PARTICIPATION IN ALECSO ONLINE MEETING: CONFERENCE MEETING FOR THE COOPERATION ON ARCHAEOLOGY AND CULTURAL BETWEEN INTERNATIONAL AND HERITAGE IN THE ARAB WORLD REGIONAL ORGANISATIONS AND 9 SEPTEMBER 2020 BODIES TO SUPPORT THE EFFORTS OF ARAB COUNTRIES TO PROTECT ONLINE VIA ZOOM THEIR HERITAGE PROPERTIES IN CULTURE TIMES OF CRISIS CONSERVATION; COMMUNICATION 15 OCTOBER 2020 ONLINE VIA ZOOM CULTURE On 9 September 2020, ARC-WH proposed a set of recommendations was invited to participate in an that could address the challenges CONSERVATION online Conference on Archaeology faced by inscribed properties and how and Cultural Heritage in the Arab organisations and institutions could World organised by ALECSO to provide further assistance for the ARC-WH contributed to the online discuss the state of conservation of State of Lebanon during the recovery meeting organised by the Arab properties inscribed on the World and rehabilitation of Beirut. League for Educational, Cultural Heritage List in Danger in the Arab and Science (ALECSO) on 15 region. Discussions also included the October 2020 for the cooperation situation unfolding in Beirut following between international and regional the tragic blast that damaged many organisations and institutions towards areas of the city and its invaluable the support of Arab countries to cultural heritage in August 2020. The protect their heritage in times of meeting was attended by several Arab crisis. States directors of cultural heritage The meeting focused on establishing departments, international experts, regional cooperation between and representatives from ICCROM- organisations responsible for culture ATHAR ICOM, ICESCO, Arab Towns and heritage to address emergencies Organisation and UNESCO Rabat. and assist countries whose heritage During the meeting, ARC-WH sites are threatened by human-made presented an overview of World or natural disaster. Heritage Sites and properties in the Arab region and the main challenges that need to be addressed to enhance the state of conservation of properties inscribed on the World Heritage List in Danger. Moreover, ARC-WH 57
CONTRIBUTION TO WORLD CONTRIBUTION TO MASTER HERITAGE CITIES PROGRAMME PROGRAMME (MSC) IN URBAN NOTEBOOKS – REFLECTION CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT OF AN EXPERT: DR SHADIA OF CULTURAL HERITAGE (SECOND TOUQAN (OCTOBER NEWSLETTER CYCLE) 2020) 25 NOVEMBER OCTOBER 2020 HELD ONLINE VIA ZOOM CULTURE CULTURE CONSERVATION; COMMUNICATION CAPACITY BUILDING
At the World Heritage Cities On 25 November 2020 ARC-WH The students also learned about the Programme’s request, the director of contributed to the second cycle List of World Heritage in Danger, ARC-WH, Dr Shadia Touqan, was asked of the Master programme (MSc) referred to as the Danger List, and to contribute to the ‘World Heritage in Conservation Management of the Desired State of Conservation Cities Programme Urban Notebooks’ Cultural Heritage, held online due drafting process (DSCOCR). They (Newsletter October 2020) by providing to the restrictive circumstances also learned about the inscription of an expert think piece. of COVID-19. The programme is properties on the Danger List and all implemented by ICCROM-Sharjah and related mechanisms and benefits for In her video and written intervention, the University of Sharjah. the sites. she talks about the ‘Historical Centre at the core of the Contemporary City’ ARC-WH’s intervention for the module and how historical cities in the Arab on World Heritage aimed to educate region are affected by increasing and provide first-year master’s pressures like rapid population growth students with a comprehensive and neglect that lead to urban decay understanding and overview of and deterioration of historical cities. the World Heritage Convention mechanisms and implementation, in The full intervention can be accessed addition to the Convention’s main on the World Heritage Cities goals and the stakeholders involved. Programme website and ARC-WH’s Moreover, ARC-WH introduced the website. students to the Operational Guidelines and expanded upon its core concepts and how the World Heritage Convention is implemented through the Guidelines. ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 59
Al-Hijr Archaeological Site (Madâin Sâlih) (Saudi Arabia) © Editions Gelbart ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 6. OTHER ACTIVITIES
© Hani Bader
ORGANISATION OF THE HERITAGE LAUNCH OF THE EXHIBITION ON OBSERVATION OF THE 27TH OF EARTHEN ARCHITECTURE IN NEW WORLD HERITAGE SITES IN AFRICAN WORLD HERITAGE FUND THE ARAB STATES THE ARAB REGION (AWHF) BOARD OF TRUSTEES 17 FEBRUARY 17 FEBRUARY SESSION ARC-WH PREMISES ARC-WH PREMISES 24 JULY CULTURE CULTURE ONLINE VIA ZOOM COMMUNICATION; COMMUNITY; COMMUNICATION CONSERVATION ARC-WH was invited to observe the 27th African World Heritage Fund ARC-WH launched the exhibition on (AWHF) Board of Trustees Session. In partnership with the International New World Heritage Sites in the Arab Sessions touched upon essential Council on Monuments and Sites Region on 17 February 2020 at its operations of the Fund. The virtual (ICOMOS) and the International Scientific premises in Manama, Bahrain. The meetings took place from 21 to 23 Committee on Earthen Architectural exhibition included pictures of World July 2020. Heritage (ICOMOS-ISCEAH), ARC-WH Heritage Sites in the Arab region organised an exhibition on Heritage of inscribed on the World Heritage List AWHF is Category II Centre under Earthen Architecture in the Arab States within the last decade. held at its premises in Manama, Bahrain, the auspices of UNESCO. The Fund is hosted by the South African on 17 February 2020. This exhibition’s main goal was government on behalf of the African to illustrate the achievements in The exhibition showcased unique continent. identifying and protecting the vernacular earthen architecture of the continued effective implementation of region and presented the diversity and the World Heritage Convention in the richness of earthen structures. The Arab Region. exhibition highlighted the threats and difficulties faced when protecting and transmitting information on earthen architecture to future generations, mainly due to deterioration and Climate Change. It also demonstrated the potential of this typology of heritage for future nominations.
Additionally, the exhibition included the preparation of a leaflet in Arabic and English that contained further information on the exhibition’s topic, such as the history of earthen architecture in the region and the different techniques and types of these unique structures 61
Archaeological Site of Volubilis (Morocco) © Editions Gelbart ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 6. OTHER ACTIVITIES
CONTRIBUTION TO THE PROJECT OF REVISING THE NATIONAL CULTURAL HERITAGE LAW OF BAHRAIN 14 OCTOBER MANAMA, BAHRAIN/ONLINE VIA ZOOM CULTURE CAPACITY BUILDING; CONSERVATION; COMMUNICATION; CREDIBILITY
ARC-WH was invited by the Bahrain The document addresses the Authority for Culture and Antiquities main objectives and scope of the (BACA) to participate in the working revision and the need for a more group responsible for revising the comprehensive approach and strategy national heritage law adopted in for protecting cultural heritage in 1995. ARC-WH attended several line with international conventions coordination meetings with a group of adopted by the Kingdome of Bahrain. heritage professionals to address the The document also includes steps main scope and objectives addressed towards implementing this project in the revision. Furthermore, a with concerned local authorities and workshop on the preparation and decision-makers. assessment of legal frameworks was organised by ARC-WH with international legal experts’ assistance in cultural legislation. The training was held online on the 7 October 2020.
Following the workshop, ARC-WH, in collaboration with BACA, was requested to prepare a concept note and guiding document summarising the main outcomes of the reflection on the revision of the heritage law. 63
Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis, Egypt © Editions Gelbart ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 65
Socotra Archipelago, Yemen © Editions Gelbart ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 6. OTHER ACTIVITIES
©AbdelHamid Salah El-Sharief ORGANISATION OF WEBINAR AND INTERNATIONAL DAY OF VIDEO COMMEMORATING THE SOLIDARITY WITH THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF ISLAMIC PALESTINIAN PEOPLE: CULTURAL ART HERITAGE AS A FRAMEWORK FOR 25 NOVEMBER 2020 SOLIDARITY AND DEVELOPMENT ONLINE VIA ZOOM 29 NOVEMBER 2020 CULTURE CULTURE COMMUNICATION COMMUNICATION
On the occasion of the International Day In celebration of the International and conservation of the Mamluk of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, Day of Islamic Art that takes place Minbars of the World Heritage Site, held annually on 29 November, ARC- annually on 18 November, ARC-WH Historic Cairo. Dr Abdelhamid is the WH launched a pre-recorded lecture organised a webinar on 25 November Project Manager and Chairman of the under Cultural Heritage as a Framework 2020 that featured discussions by two Egyptian Heritage Rescue Foundation, for Solidarity and Development with experts of Islamic heritage to discuss of ‘Rescuing the Mamluk Minbars of an exhibition that consists of images the main influence of Islamic Art on Cairo’, funded by the British Council. Historic Cities. and artworks done by Bahraini and Palestinian artists. The video included The first expert was Dr Ebrahim a welcome address by Her Excellency Shabouh, a member Tunisian Sheikha Mai Bint Mohamed Al Khalifa, Academy of Sciences, Letters, and Chairperson of ARC-WH Governing Arts and expert advisor to ALECSO Board, and two international experts in presented the Islamic architecture in cultural heritage who presented the role the historical city of Kairouan. The of cultural diplomacy in preserving the second expert to present was Dr World Heritage and the cultural identity Mohamed Hussam Ismail, professor of the Palestinian people. of Islamic Archaeology at Ain Shams University and Chairman of the Dr Mounir Bouchenaki, a former Advisor Board of Directors of the Association to UNESCO Director-General, addressed (Heritage and traditional arts in Cairo) cultural diplomacy and its role in who talked about Islamic Art and safeguarding the Palestinian Culture. Architectural Heritage. The second speaker Dr Hamdan Taha, a researcher and archaeologist, focused Additionally, ARC-WH broadcasted a his intervention on the role of the pre-recorded presentation done by Dr Palestinian community in preserving Abdelhamid Al Salah, who discussed cultural heritage. the documentation, restoration The lecture and exhibition can be accessed on ARC-WH’s website. 67
Kairouan, Tunisia © Editions Gelbart ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 69
Old Town of Ghadamès (Libya) © Editions Gelbart ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 6. OTHER ACTIVITIES
PARTICIPATION IN THE PLENARY CONTRIBUTION TO THE ‘1ST SESSION: DAY OF PALMYRA. ANNUAL SYMPOSIUM OF ISLAMIC PROBLEMS OF PROTECTING THE ART AND ARCHITECTURE’ “ARCHAEOLOGICAL MONUMENTS ORGANISED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF PALMYRA” UNESCO WORLD OF BAHRAIN HERITAGE SITE 3 DECEMBER 2020 2 DECEMBER 2020 ONLINE VIA ZOOM ONLINE VIA ZOOM CULTURE CULTURE COMMUNICATION COMMUNICATION
The University of Bahrain, College of various examples of properties on the At the invitation of the State Hermitage Engineering, Department of Architecture World Heritage List linked to historic Museum, located in St. Petersburg, and Interior Design, organised the 1st Islamic influence. ARC-WH’s presentation Russia, ARC-WH participated in Annual Symposium of Islamic Art and included distinctions between historical round table discussion on the Plenary Architecture on 3 December 2020 to Islamic sites and historical Islamic sites of Session: Day of Palmyra. Problems celebrate the International Day of Islamic Outstanding Universal Value (OUV). The of protecting the “Archaeological Art and the contribution that Islamic Art keynote intervention also highlighted Monuments of Palmyra” UNESCO World plays in the role of cultural expression the differences between values and Heritage Site. The online meeting and diversity. attributes and how they are physical addressed the challenges of protecting assets that convey values (mainly the archaeological monument, as ARC-WH was invited as a keynote intangible). well as potential approaches to its speaker, alongside Dr Haifa Al-Khalifa, reconstruction and restoration. Chairwomen of the Department of Architecture and Interior Design and Professor Mishary Al Naim, Secretary- General of Abdullatif Alfozan Award for Mosque Architecture, to discuss historical Islamic cities within the framework of World Heritage and the values and attributes.
ARC-WH introduced the main concepts of World Heritage and the processes leading to the inscription of new sites. The Centre also briefly expanded upon the main topic of discussion regarding Islamic art and architecture by providing 71
ORGANISATION OF THE ONLINE ARABIC LANGUAGE DAY CONTRIBUTION TO THE THIRD REGIONAL MEETING WITH 18 DECEMBER 2020 INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE PERMANENT DELEGATIONS OF ON MARINE ENVIRONMENT AND ONLIE VIA ZOOM ARAB STATES TO UNESCO COASTS 2020 CULTURE 14 DECEMBER 2020 21-22 DECEMBER COMMUNICATION ONLINE VIA ZOOM FUJAIRAH, UAE CULTURE ONLINE VIA ZOOM COMMUNICATION In cooperation with Bahrain Authority NATURE for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), ARC- CONSERVATION WH celebrated World Arabic Language On 14 December 2020, ARC-WH Day, held annually on 18 December, organised an online meeting with the by sharing a recorded lecture that From 21 to 22 December 2020, Permanent Delegations of Arab States examines the topic of “Arabic Language. ARC-WH contributed to the Third to UNESCO on ARC-WH’s role and its Academies: Necessity or Luxury?” International Conference on Marine future strategies towards the effective Environment and Coasts 2020 in implementation of the World Heritage The video is accessible on ARC-WH’s Fujairah, UAE. ARC-WH attended the Convention in the region. The meeting website and YouTube channel. conference via Zoom due to COVID-19 aimed to strengthen communication restrictions. The conference was held and coordination with the delegations under the theme, Green Development and build new partnerships to enhance of Coastal Areas, and addressed various World Heritage protection and promotion in the Arab States. issues regarding crucial and sensitive types of environment. The online meeting served as an alternative to ARC-WH’s annual meeting During the conference, ARC-WH with the Delegations of Arab States presented on Coastal World Heritage to UNESCO held during the World Properties in the Arab Region: Heritage Committee Sessions, which was Examples on the Best Practices in the postponed in 2020 due to COVID-19. Sustainable Development, and provided insightful and detailed descriptions on During the meeting, several effective and sustainable practices. proposals were made to enhance ARC-WH’s intervention also included the Centre’s actions and strengthen its programmes and efforts in regional coordination with concerned achieving sustainable development in stakeholders. The meeting was also an coastal sites. opportunity to take stock of ARC-WH’s achievements in the Arab region and inform the Arab States Delegation of future strategies and programmes of the ARC-WH. ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2020 STATISTICS AND FIGURES
86 WORLD HERITAGE SITES IN THE ARAB REGION
9 8 7 7 6 6 5 5 5 5 5 4 3 3 3 2 1 1 1
Iraq Syria UAE Egypt Libya Oman Qatar Sudan Algeria Bahrain Jordan Tunisia Yemen Lebanon Morocco Palastine Mauritania Jerusalem Saudi Arabia
WORLD HERITAGE IN THE ARAB REGION
78
21
5 3 1 0
Culture Nature Mixed In Danger Delisted Transboundary
WORLD HERITAGE IN DANGER IN THE ARAB REGION GENDER DISTRIBUTION OF CAPACITY BUILDING PARTICIPANTS FROM THE ARAB REGION 2020
24% 49 Female In Danger 33%
100 Not in Danger Male 76% 67% 73 www.arcwh.org
51
ARC-WH CAPACITY BUILDING PARTICIPANTS IN 2020 Total Participants 149 from the Arab Region
16 15 14
8 8 6 6 5 5 3 3 3 2 3 1 0 0 0
Iraq Syria UAE Egypt Libya Oman Qatar Sudan Algeria Bahrain Jordan Kuwait Tunisia Yemen Lebanon Morocco Palestine Mauritania Saudi Arabia
ARC-WH CAPACITY BUILDING PARTICIPANTS FROM 2012-2020 Total Participants 1416 from the Arab Region 298
166
121 105 86 69 64 61 62 67 45 49 46 43 29 24 29 28 24
Iraq Syria UAE Egypt Libya Oman Qatar Sudan Algeria Bahrain Jordan Kuwait Tunisia Yemen Lebanon Morocco Palestine Mauritania Saudi Arabia
ARC-WH ACTIVITIES 2020 - TOTAL 70 ACTIVITIES
12 Workshops 17% 17% Public events & lectures 11%
Technical & financial assistance 16% 8 31 11% Publications & translations 9% 44%
Exhibitions 3% 11 Conference & meeting attendance 44% 16% 2 6 3% 9% ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 20192020
Saint Catherine Area, Egypt © Editions Gelbart 75 STATISTICS AND NUMBER OF WORLD FIGURES HERITAGE PROPERTIES BY REGION
Europe and N. America
Asia & Pacific
529
86 268 96 142 Arab States Africa
Latin America & the Caribbean ARC-WH ANNUAL REPORT 2019 76 MAIN PARTNERS
UNESCO/ World Heritage Centre
Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities
International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property
International Union for Conservation of Nature
African World Heritage Fund