Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage (UNESCO, Paris, November 2, 2001)

Abstract

Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage UNESCO       Paris, November 2, 2001 ONU-UNESCO

The Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage, adopted by UNESCO in 2001, establishes international principles and standards for the protection, preservation, and management of cultural heritage that has remained underwater for at least 100 years. The document recognizes the historical, cultural, and scientific value of this heritage as part of humanity's common legacy and warns of the threats posed by looting, commercial exploitation, and unregulated human activities. The Convention promotes in situ preservation as a priority measure, prohibits the commercialization of underwater property, and encourages cooperation between States, specialized scientific research, and public education. It also seeks to ensure responsible access that contributes to the sustainable conservation of heritage for present and future generations.

Keywords: Underwater cultural heritage; UNESCO; International convention; In situ preservation; Underwater archaeology; International cooperation; Cultural protection.