site.btaBulgaria Fully Supports New Global Strategy for Capacity Building, Says Deputy Culture Minister

Bulgaria fully supports the new Global Capacity-Building Programme, which is of key importance for the effective and equitable implementation of the 1972 Convention, said Deputy Culture Minister Todor Chobanov on Monday during the opening ceremony of the 47th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, chaired by Bulgaria.

He emphasized the active role of Bulgaria in the protection of the world's cultural and natural heritage and noted that the strategy must be long-term, inclusive and tailored to the specific needs of each country, placing emphasis on support for Africa and small island developing states. Chobanov also pointed out the need for science-based policies in combination with traditional knowledge and modern technologies, especially in the context of the climate crisis.

He welcomed the progress in implementing the Climate Action Policy Paper and underlined Bulgaria’s commitment to an interdisciplinary approach to world heritage management. He drew attention to the role of local communities, young people and indigenous peoples in heritage-related decision-making processes. Chobanov stated that Bulgaria is ready to contribute with expertise and to participate in international initiatives for the restoration of heritage after conflicts and disasters.

The 47th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, chaired by Bulgaria, runs until July 16 at UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris. As part of the session, Bulgaria will present elements of its cultural and natural heritage. Later Monday, the July issue of LIK magazine – dedicated to Bulgaria and UNESCO – will also be officially presented at UNESCO.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was founded on November 16, 1945. Bulgaria became a member on May 17, 1956, the same year its National Commission for UNESCO was established. The Commission coordinates activities between Bulgarian institutions and UNESCO.

UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee is one of the two governing bodies responsible for implementing the Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage. It is composed of representatives from 21 countries elected from among the 196 States Parties to the Convention.