UNESCO heritage danger list

Recently, experts from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) have stated in a new report that the Italian city of Venice should be added to a list of world heritage sites in danger.

Urgent Need to Address long-standing problems in Venice

Venice has been grappling for years with too many tourists and the effects of climate change.

Mass tourism
Development projects: High-rise buildings can have a significant negative visual impact on the city and they should be built far from the city Centre.
Rising sea levels due to Climate change [Global Risks due to Climate Change] – The increase in the frequency and levels of high tides, in addition to the phenomenon of wave motion caused by motor boats, is one of the main causes of deterioration and damage to the building structures and urban areas.

These issues are causing

Deterioration and damage to building structures and urban areas
Degrading the cultural and social identity of the property
Threatening the integrity of its cultural, environmental and landscape attributes and values

A few instances that were noted

In February 2023, the city was in the grips of a drought such that Italian lakes and rivers had dried up.
In November 2019, historical treasures and buildings were endangered due to flooding.

Two years back, the decision to include in ‘Danger List’ was averted

Some emergency measures were adopted by the Italian government.

One of those measures was the decision to ban large ships like cruise ships from the San Marco Basin-Giudecca Canal, which is still being enforced.
The UNESCO panel recommended finding new options for docking large ships outside the lagoon.
Another recommendation: Launch an ambitious conservation plan for the city.

But the plan to save Venice was never implemented and has remained a mirage.

Key facts about UNESCO

UNESCO stands for United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
It is specialized agency of the United Nations(UN).
The constitution, which entered into force in 1946, called for the promotion of international collaboration in education, science, and culture.
The agency’s permanent headquarters are in Paris, France.
Parent Organisation – United Nations Economic and Social Council
Goal: The primary goals of UNESCO are to contribute to peace and security by promoting collaboration among nations through education, science, and culture, and to promote sustainable development and intercultural dialogue.
UNESCO believes that these areas are crucial for building a more just, peaceful, and inclusive world.

FAQs about UNESCO’s Report on Venice’s World Heritage Status and Key Facts:

1. What is the recent development regarding Venice’s world heritage status?

Experts from UNESCO have recommended adding the Italian city of Venice to the list of world heritage sites in danger due to issues like mass tourism, development projects, and the effects of climate change.

2. What are some of the long-standing problems faced by Venice?

Venice has been dealing with challenges such as excessive tourism, development projects that could impact its visual integrity, and the effects of rising sea levels due to climate change.

3. How is mass tourism affecting Venice?

Mass tourism is causing overcrowding and strain on the city’s infrastructure, leading to negative impacts on its cultural and social identity.

4. How is climate change affecting Venice?

Climate change has led to rising sea levels, increased frequency of high tides, and wave motion caused by motor boats, resulting in damage to building structures and urban areas.