UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2025
1 – 8 July 2025 | UNESCO Headquarters, Paris
The World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2025 will take place from 1 to 8 July 2025 at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. Organized as part of the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee and within the framework of the UNESCO World Heritage Education Programme, this Forum is supported by the Republic of Bulgaria.
Bringing together 25 young professionals from around the world, the Forum will focus on the theme:
“World Heritage in an Interconnected World: Leveraging Digital Technologies and Innovative Approaches.”
At the conclusion of the Forum, participants will present their Declaration at the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee.
Forum Objectives
The World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2025 aims to:
- Enhance the understanding and expertise of young professionals in protecting, preserving, and promoting World Heritage.
- Explore emerging digital technologies and innovative approaches for safeguarding cultural and natural heritage.
- Facilitate intercultural learning, networking, and knowledge exchange through presentations, workshops, site visits, and discussions.
Participants will engage in a combination of theoretical learning and practical experiences, including visits to World Heritage sites.
Background
The World Heritage Young Professionals Fora are flagship activities of the World Heritage Education Programme. They provide young experts with the opportunity to:
- Gain insights into heritage management practices in different cultural contexts.
- Engage with World Heritage Committee members and Advisory Bodies.
- Deepen their understanding of the 1972 World Heritage Convention and its implementation.
For more details on past World Heritage Young Professionals Fora, visit:
https://whc.unesco.org/en/youth-forum/
Theme: “World Heritage in an Interconnected World”
The 2025 Forum will explore the role of digital technologies and innovation in World Heritage preservation. Participants will examine how emerging tools such as:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) in conservation
- Immersive tools (AR/VR) for heritage education
- Digital mapping and drones for site documentation
- 3D modeling for heritage reconstruction
Through discussions and practical applications, the Forum will highlight strategies for sustainable heritage management.
Provisional Programme
| Date | Activity |
|---|---|
| 30 June 2025 | Arrival of Participants |
| 1 July 2025 | Opening of the Forum and Introductions |
| 2-5 July 2025 | Thematic Discussions and World Heritage Site Visits |
| 6 July 2025 | Drafting of the Declaration |
| 7 July 2025 | Presentation of the Declaration at the 47th World Heritage Committee Session and Closing Ceremony |
| 8 July 2025 | Departure of Participants |
Final programme details will be shared with selected participants.
UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2025 Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must:
- Be aged between 23 and 32 years (born between 30 June 1993 and 30 June 2002).
- Have experience in fields such as architecture, archaeology, conservation, restoration, urban planning, art history, or heritage-related studies.
- Be actively involved in World Heritage protection, preservation, and promotion.
- Have knowledge and experience in digital technologies related to World Heritage.
- Be committed to implementing the Forum’s outcomes in their country.
- Be interested in community engagement in World Heritage management.
- Be available for the full duration of the Forum.
- Be proficient in English and/or French (the Forum will be conducted in both languages).
Selection will also consider:
- Balanced geographical representation
- Gender equality
- Diversity of professional backgrounds
- Ability to disseminate acquired knowledge in their home country
- Experience in World Heritage site management practices
How to Apply
Interested candidates must complete the online application form:
Apply Here
Required Documents
- CV (Curriculum Vitae)
- Passport-size photo
Deadline: 22 April 2025 (23:59 CET)
Selected applicants will be notified via email.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Travel and Accommodation
The Forum organizers will cover:
- Economy-class flights
- Accommodation
- Local transportation
- Meals
- Visa fees
Arrival: 30 June 2025
Departure: 8 July 2025
Organizers will assist participants with travel arrangements and visa support.
For inquiries, contact: [email protected]
Join us at the World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2025 and contribute to shaping the future of World Heritage.
Visit the Official Webpage here
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the selecting committee. For any inquiries, please contact Africa Research Excellence Fund directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding
