UNESCO Warns 40% of Threatened World Heritage Sites Are in the Middle East

UNESCO Warns 40% of Threatened World Heritage Sites Are in the Middle East
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UNESCO has warned that climate change and armed conflicts are increasingly threatening World Heritage Sites worldwide, with 40% of those at risk located in the Middle East. The warning came during the opening of the expanded 47th session of the World Heritage Committee in Paris, where officials are reviewing proposals to add about 30 new sites to the World Heritage List. These include archaeological and natural sites spanning from prehistoric eras to marine ecosystems.

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay stressed that culture must play a vital role in addressing global challenges, highlighting that three-quarters of World Heritage Sites now face severe water-related threats, from shortages and flooding to the impact of excessive tourism. Azoulay added that over half of the sites already listed as endangered are under direct threat due to armed conflict.

The agency confirmed it will resume operations in Syria to safeguard the National Museum in Damascus and restore damaged landmarks in Aleppo. It is also closely monitoring damage to cultural sites in Gaza using satellite imagery and hopes to intervene when conditions allow.
There are currently more than 1,200 sites on the World Heritage List, with around 250 under review this year amid growing threats.