25 September 2023
At the extended 45th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, which transpired in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from 10 through 25 September, 12 new Asia-Pacific sites (out of a global total of 42 new sites), and two new inscriptions (out of a global total of five) for ‘recognition for significant modifications to the boundaries of an existing site’, have joined the UNESCO World Heritage List (WHL).
New Asia-Pacific UNESCO World Heritage List inscriptions in 2022 and 2023 (12):
In addition, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee recognizes significant modifications to the boundaries of existing World Heritage properties in Asia-Pacific (2):
These 2023 Asia-Pacific listings now number among a total of 42 new inscribed cultural or natural properties of ‘outstanding universal value’, and five recognitions of significant modifications of the boundaries of existing World Heritage properties from across the globe.
Now tallying 1,199 properties worldwide, the World Heritage List is testament to UNESCO’s commitment to the preservation, maintenance and sustainable development – in collaboration with national governments, regional stakeholders, and local communities – of the world’s cultural and natural treasures as constituting assets of ‘universal heritage’ for all peoples.
For the complete list of new inscriptions and new recognitions of significant modifications of boundaries
For further documentation of the extended 45th session of the World Heritage Committee