Why April 18 is Considered UNESCO World Heritage Day

VIVA – Every April 18, an international observance is held around the world known as World Heritage Day or International Day of Historic Monuments and Sites. 

The day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of cultural heritage sites and monuments, and the efforts required to protect and conserve them for future generations.

World Heritage Day includes some activities, such as visits to historical monuments and sites, conferences, meetings, and newspaper articles.

Each year, the International Council of Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) sets a theme for initiatives organized by its members, national and international committees, and anyone else interested in commending World Heritage Day.

In 1982, ICOMOS created the International Day for Monuments and Sites, or World Heritage Day which was later adopted by UNESCO in its 22nd General Conference.

Each year, a theme of activities is designed by ICOMOS members and national and international scientific committees, and ICOMOS partners who wish to participate in celebrating the day.

Cultural heritage preservation requires a critical evaluation of the past and a commitment to the future.

Controversies over the deletion and omission of some narratives and the prioritization of certain stories have intensified in recent years. Therefore, there is a long way to go to avoid biased viewpoints and interpretations of controversial histories.

According to the World Heritage Convention of 1972, "The destruction or extinction of any object of the cultural or natural heritage of a people means the destruction of the heritage of the whole world."

However, there is still a pain in the recognition, deception, and preservation of various cultural manifestations.

The theme for 2021 was "Complex Pasts: Diverse Futures", which emphasized the need to recognize and celebrate the diversity of cultural heritage and promote a more inclusive approach to its conservation. Organizations like UNESCO supported the day.

Activities on the day are diverse, including conferences and visits to historical places and monuments.

For the uninitiated, heritage sites are locations that have cultural significance and protect the physical and cultural artifacts of a community or group that have been passed down from generation to generation.

As more information, the theme for World Heritage Day or International Monuments and Sites Day in 2023 is "Heritage Changes".