HIST, UNOSAT Forge Partnership for World Heritage Conservation

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed on September 6, 2024, between the International Centre on Space Technologies for Natural and Cultural Heritage (HIST) and the United Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT). The agreement was formalized during the Fourth Space Observation Forum for Sustainable Development organized by the International Research Center of Big Data for Sustainable Development Goals (CBAS), signaling an advancement in the use of space technology for the protection of World Heritage sites.

The MOU, signed by HIST Director-General GUO Huadong and UNOSAT Acting Director Marion Barthelemy, represents a five-year commitment to harnessing the technological strengths of both organizations. The partnership will concentrate on key areas, including the monitoring and assessment of natural and cultural heritage sites, research and consultation services, disaster prevention and mitigation strategies, capacity building, and the promotion of sustainable development.

These activities are aligned with the goals of the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage and the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

HIST, established in 2011 under UNESCO’s auspices, operates within the Aerospace Information Research Institute (AIR) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The center is dedicated to the application of space technologies in the conservation of natural and cultural heritage sites, with a particular focus on those threatened by environmental changes and human activities.

UNOSAT, a program of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), provides satellite analysis, training, and capacity development to UN agencies and member states. The center is renowned for its expertise in applying geospatial information technologies to humanitarian, development, and peacekeeping efforts, with a specialization in rapid mapping and disaster response.

This collaboration between HIST and UNOSAT aims to deliver robust space technology solutions for the protection and sustainable management of World Heritage sites, particularly in regions facing significant challenges.

GUO Huadong, Director-General of HIST, signs a MOU with Marion Barthelemy, Acting Director of UNOSAT.