Learning networks

The implementation of the UNESCO World Heritage Convention provides a space for exchange and collaboration between researchers and practitioners that has not been sufficiently or systematically explored. There is an increasingly evident need to reinforce the interlinkages between the conservation of natural and cultural heritage, and strengthen the interconnections between science, practice and policy. To take advantage of these opportunities, the WHL programme proposes to stimulate these synergies through the development of learning networks.

The programme tests ideas on the ground, with site activities contributing to the development of learning resources. All courses and activities aim to work with World Heritage sites around the world. These case studies also help to fuel networking by enabling the right kind of messages to feed into the conversation.

Panorama Nature-Culture Solutions

The WHL programme tests ideas on the ground, with site activities contributing to the development of learning resources. All courses and activities aim to work with World Heritage sites around the world.

The PANORAMA Nature-Culture Thematic Community focuses on sharing case studies where the interlinkages between nature conservation and the safeguarding of cultural heritage are crucial for the effective management and sustainable development of heritage places.

It presents place-based and people-catered approaches which highlight the relationship of natural and cultural diversity and provide a source of exchange between World Heritage properties, heritage places and practitioners.

The thematic community is coordinated by the joint ICCROM and IUCN World Heritage Leadership Programme and the secretariat of ICOMOS International.

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Research Networks

The main aim of the Research Network is to connect science to practice by creating common ground between scientific knowledge and local knowledge systems. This is done to enable the exchange and co-creation of knowledge that can bring innovative, creative, and inclusive solutions for site management, which in turn can inform policy development.

The pilot phase 2021-2022 will focus on exploring and facilitating links between researchers and site managers, initially through activating diverse existing research networks related to WHL programme partner organizations and the World Heritage field in general.

Based on the outcomes of the pilot phase, a model that could be scaled up will be elaborated, with the longer-term aim of developing a World Heritage research strategy and agenda.

World Heritage Site Managers' Forum

Since 2017, the WHL programme, together with the UNESCO World Heritage Centre and the host country of the World Heritage Committee, has coordinated and delivered the annual World Heritage Site Managers' Forum (WHSMF). The forum is an opportunity to build and nurture a network of site managers, and has become a platform for them to exchange experience and knowledge, and to meet and discuss common challenges and opportunities.

World Heritage site managers from across the globe are invited to participate in this year’s WHSMF, which aims to continue empowering them on the international stage. Participants from all natural, cultural and mixed World Heritage properties may apply.

Participation is possible offline and online. The 2021 WHSMF is being organized jointly with the WHL programme, to address the capacity building needs of site managers worldwide.

Regional, thematic networks and representation at global events

The WHL programme is actively engaged with diverse partners and events to communicate our message and engage in discussions. One of the key areas we value is the building of international networks between nature and culture practitioners and institutions that link on-ground practice with leadership at international, regional, national and local levels.