Fund set up to protect endangered heritage sites

Representatives of around 40 countries gathered in Abu Dhabi on Friday to focus on setting up a $100-million fund to protect and restore heritage sites threatened by extremism and conflict

Director-General of UNESCO, Irina Bokova. Pic/AFP

Abu Dhabi: Representatives of around 40 countries gathered in Abu Dhabi on Friday to focus on setting up a $100-million fund to protect and restore heritage sites threatened by extremism and conflict.

The two-day conference reflects growing international alarm over the destruction of ancient artefacts by Islamic State group jihadists using sledgehammers, bulldozers and explosives. Another key aim is to establish “refuge zones” around the globe for endangered works of art, according to organisers.

“To succeed, we need to work together... united for heritage,” UNESCO director Irina Bokova told participants.

The UNESCO says 55 out of a total of 1,052 global heritage sites are listed as “World Heritage in Danger”. Representatives approved plans to establish a fund to protect heritage sites in war zones and a network of safe havens for endangered artworks.

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