Integrating Cultural Heritage into Climate Policy in the Middle East
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Oxford
Department Name: School of Archaeology
Abstract
Our project will pioneer the integration of cultural heritage and climate policy in Jordan, home to several World Heritage sites, developing a national policy and setting a regional standard for resilience and sustainability. The integration of these research areas has not yet been attempted in the Middle East and North African (MENA) region. This is despite the region's vulnerability to climate change, especially increasing temperatures and unpredictable changes in rainfall patterns leading to drought and flash flooding, and the presence of a number of globally significant heritage sites.
This project builds on our (both UK and Jordanian) research on the impacts of climate change at the World Heritage sites of Petra, Jericho, As-Salt, and the Baptism site. Working with colleagues in the Petra National Trust and the National Committee of ICOMOS-Jordan, and focusing on the World Heritage Sites of Petra, Jericho (also working with the Palestinian authorities), As-Salt and the Baptism Site, this research project will bring together results from recent and current research into the intersection of climate change, traditional land management practices, the management of cultural heritage, and the impact of significant tourism pressures.
The main focus of the project will be a workshop half-way through the project, debating a draft policy presented by the project team with stakeholders including government agencies, NGOs, the local government authorities concerned, WHS managers, and local communities. The policies will align with the goals outlined in the Updated UNESCO Policy Document on Climate Action for World Heritage. The workshop will also provide an opportunity to reinforce and expand the networks developed research already undertaken.
The final product of the project will be a policy White Paper arising from the workshop debates which will be launched at an online event promoted through the regional networks of the Endangered Archaeology of the Middle East and North Africa project in the University of Oxford and the Petra National Trust and its President, UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Cultural Heritage, HRH Princess Dana Firas.
This project builds on our (both UK and Jordanian) research on the impacts of climate change at the World Heritage sites of Petra, Jericho, As-Salt, and the Baptism site. Working with colleagues in the Petra National Trust and the National Committee of ICOMOS-Jordan, and focusing on the World Heritage Sites of Petra, Jericho (also working with the Palestinian authorities), As-Salt and the Baptism Site, this research project will bring together results from recent and current research into the intersection of climate change, traditional land management practices, the management of cultural heritage, and the impact of significant tourism pressures.
The main focus of the project will be a workshop half-way through the project, debating a draft policy presented by the project team with stakeholders including government agencies, NGOs, the local government authorities concerned, WHS managers, and local communities. The policies will align with the goals outlined in the Updated UNESCO Policy Document on Climate Action for World Heritage. The workshop will also provide an opportunity to reinforce and expand the networks developed research already undertaken.
The final product of the project will be a policy White Paper arising from the workshop debates which will be launched at an online event promoted through the regional networks of the Endangered Archaeology of the Middle East and North Africa project in the University of Oxford and the Petra National Trust and its President, UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Cultural Heritage, HRH Princess Dana Firas.
| Description | A set of recommendations has been developed to integrate climate change into world heritage site management - the document is currently being moved for official endorsement in Jordan, and a modified version is being prepared for Palestine. Engagement with Iraqi and Egyptian heritage specialists has been achieved. The potential impact of climate change ion the region has not yet been considered as a standard part of developing world heritage site management plans, nor have the potential benefits of traditional land management practices been considered in helping develop resilience to climate change. The policy will help protect world heritage, help develop resilience in local populations, and bring cultural heritage into national climate change policies. |
| Exploitation Route | We plan to roll out similar policy guidance in other countries of the Middle East and North Africa |
| Sectors | Environment Leisure Activities including Sports Recreation and Tourism Culture Heritage Museums and Collections |
| Description | Climate change and cultural heritage - Palestine |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Policy Influence Type | Contribution to new or improved professional practice |
| Description | Climate change and cultural heritage workshop, Amman |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
| Results and Impact | An international panel of professional experts and cultural heritage managers met to develop a draft policy, presented on the final day to senior government officials |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |