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The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization is seeking applications for its World Heritage Young Professionals Forum to enhance the understanding and expertise of young professionals in protecting, preserving, and promoting the natural and cultural World Heritage through the implementation of emerging technologies.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization is seeking applications for its World Heritage Young Professionals Forum to enhance the understanding and expertise of young professionals in protecting, preserving, and promoting the natural and cultural World Heritage through the implementation of emerging technologies.
As an integral part of the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee, in the framework of the UNESCO World Heritage Education Programme, and with the support of the Republic of Bulgaria, the World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2025 will take place from 1 to 8 July 2025 at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris.
The forum will bring together about 25 young professionals from across the globe with diverse backgrounds to foster mutual learning and exchange on the Forum topics through a combination of presentations, round tables, workshops, virtual and on-site visits. At the end of the Forum, the young professionals will present their Declaration at the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee.
Theme
- World Heritage in an interconnected world: Leveraging digital technologies and innovative approaches. This theme addresses the challenges and opportunities of preserving and promoting World Heritage in a rapidly changing and increasingly connected world. It explores how emerging new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), immersive tools (AR/VR), digital mapping, drones and 3D modelling can revolutionize the preservation and awareness raising of World Heritage. It also highlights the need to develop Innovative approaches to World Heritage to foster sustainable heritage management for future generations.
Duration
- The Forum’s main venue will be at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. To supplement the theoretical knowledge gained during the forum, participants will have the opportunity to engage in World Heritage sites visits:
- 30 June 2025: Arrival Day
- 1 July 2025: Opening of the Forum and Introductions
- 2-5 July 2025: Thematic discussions and site visits
- 6 July 2025: Drafting of the Declaration
- 7 July 2025: Declaration at the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee and Closing of the Forum
- 8 July 2025: Departure of participants
Eligibility Criteria
- Participants of the World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2025 are expected to be:
- Aged between 23 and 32 years (born between 30 June 1993 and 30 June 2002 including);
- Experienced in one of these fields: architecture, archaeology, conservation, restoration, urban planning, art history, heritage related studies;
- Involved in World Heritage protection, preservation and promotion;
- Familiar with/experienced in digital technologies in relation to World Heritage;
- Motivated and committed to implementing the outcomes of the Forum in their respective countries;
- Committed to enhancing community engagement in the management of World Heritage properties;
- Available for the entire duration of the Forum;
- Proficient in English and/or French, as the Forum will be conducted in English and French.
Selection Criteria
- In addition to general eligibility, the following elements will also be considered in selecting the participants:
- Balanced geographical representation
- Gender equality
- Diversity of professional backgrounds
- Ability to disseminate gained experience in the country or institution of origin
- Knowledge and experience in the management practices for World Heritage sites.
