QM Hosts Workshop on World Heritage Convention

National Museum of Qatar

Qatar Museums, in partnership with the Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage (ARC-WH), launched on Sunday a three-day workshop focused on enhancing the protection and preservation of World Heritage sites in Qatar.

This collaboration also seeks to improve the skills and capacities of heritage professionals within the State of Qatar. The workshop, titled "Mechanisms and Concepts of the 1972 World Heritage Convention and the 1954 Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict," is set to take place from 18 to 20 February 2024 at the Education Center of the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA).

CEO at Qatar Museums, Mohammed Saad Al Rumaihi, said, "Preserving and protecting cultural property is an important matter that requires intensive efforts on an international and local level and requires national efforts amongst institutions to enhance this protection. Under the leadership of Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums, we are dedicated to work on preserving the cultural heritage of the State of Qatar by preserving its heritage sites and properties to ensure the long-term sustainability of the cultural heritage in the region. In line with these efforts, Qatar Museums has collaborated with the Arab Regional Center for World Heritage to hold these important workshops which are aimed at enhancing our understanding and application of the standards set by UNESCO for the protection of world cultural heritage."

This workshop is an essential initiative aimed at promoting the understanding and implementation of international conventions dedicated to safeguarding cultural heritage. It brings together experts, practitioners, and stakeholders from various sectors to delve into the mechanisms and concepts outlined in the 1972 World Heritage Convention and the 1954 Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict.

Director of International Cooperation and Government Affairs at Qatar Museums, Dr. Fatema Al Sulaiti said, "We are delighted to collaborate with the Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage on an initiative of high importance. This partnership marks our first collaboration and represents a significant step in cultural preservation within our region.

The upcoming 3-day workshop focuses on 'Mechanisms and Concepts of the 1972 World Heritage Convention, and the 1954 Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict'. This partnership reflects our ongoing dedication to International Cooperations and the protection of our global heritage. We are eager to contribute to and learn from this important dialogue, and we look forward to future collaborations that continue to advance our collective mission."

Key highlights of the workshop include in-depth discussions, case studies, and interactive sessions led by distinguished speakers and facilitators.

Participants will explore strategies for effective heritage preservation, examine challenges posed by armed conflicts, and identify collaborative approaches to mitigate risks and protect cultural assets.

The workshop provides a platform for strengthening collaboration between Qatar Museums and ARC-WH, reinforcing their commitment to promoting heritage conservation and fostering regional cooperation.

Source: QNA