Sharjah-based cultural leader Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi has underscored the importance of research-driven heritage protection during high-level discussions at UNESCO headquarters in Paris. Sharing insights from her meeting with Lazare Eloundou Assomo, Director of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, Al Qasimi emphasized that safeguarding cultural heritage is not only an institutional responsibility but a shared global duty rooted in knowledge and public engagement.
In her remarks, Al Qasimi noted that meaningful heritage protection must be grounded in rigorous research and supported by broad public understanding. She highlighted the need for communities to be actively involved in preserving historical sites and traditions, arguing that awareness and education are essential to ensuring long-term conservation.
The discussions focused on strengthening collaboration between cultural institutions, researchers, and policymakers to better protect sites of outstanding universal value, particularly in regions facing rapid urbanization, climate challenges, and conflict-related risks. Both sides stressed that heritage preservation plays a vital role in cultural identity, sustainable development, and intergenerational knowledge transfer.
Al Qasimi’s engagement at UNESCO reflects the UAE’s growing role in global cultural diplomacy and its commitment to protecting tangible and intangible heritage worldwide. Her visit also aligns with broader international efforts to reinforce heritage governance through evidence-based strategies and inclusive public outreach.
The meeting in Paris signals continued cooperation between regional cultural leaders and UNESCO, reinforcing a shared vision that heritage protection must evolve alongside scientific research and community participation to remain resilient in a changing world.
