World Heritage	26 COM	

Distribution limited	
WHC-02/CONF.202/17
Paris, 5 December 2002
Original: English/French	

UNITED NATIONS EDUCATIONAL, SCIENTIFIC AND CULTURAL
ORGANIZATION

CONVENTION CONCERNING THE PROTECTION OF THE WORLD
CULTURAL AND NATURAL HERITAGE

30th Anniversary
(1972-2002)

WORLD HERITAGE COMMITTEE

Twenty-sixth session

Budapest, Hungary
24 - 29 June 2002

Item 21 of the Provisional Agenda: State of conservation of properties inscribed on the World Heritage List

SUMMARY

This document contains information on the state of conservation of properties inscribed on the World Heritage List. 

Part of this information has already been reviewed by the 26th session of the Bureau of the World Heritage Committee (8-13 April 2002). Reports on these properties are presented to the Committee for either noting, or for action, based on a recommendation made by the Bureau.

Decision required: The Committee is requested to review the reports on the state of conservation of properties contained in this document and in the Report of the Rapporteur of the Bureau (WHC-02/CONF.202/2) for background information and recommendations transmitted by the Bureau to the Committee for action.

INTRODUCTION

This document deals with reactive monitoring as it is defined in the Operational Guidelines: "The reporting by the Centre, other sectors of UNESCO and the Advisory Bodies to the Bureau and the Committee on the state of conservation of specific World Heritage sites that are under threat". Reactive monitoring is foreseen in the procedures for the eventual deletion of properties from the World Heritage List (paragraphs 48-56 of the Operational Guidelines) and for the inclusion of properties in the List of World Heritage in Danger (paragraphs 86-93 of the Operational Guidelines).

STRUCTURE OF THE DOCUMENT

This document contains information on the state of conservation of properties inscribed on the World Heritage List. Part of this information has been already the subject of reports presented to the Bureau session of 8-13 April 2002. Reports on these sites are divided into two categories:

I) for noting by the Committee (decision made by the Bureau)
II) for examination and action by the Committee (on a recommendation made by the Bureau)

For these reports, Committee members are requested to refer to the Report of the Rapporteur of the Bureau (Doc. WHC-02/CONF.202/2) for background information.

Furthermore, and owing to the time span between Bureau and Committee sessions introduced by the new calendar of the Statutory Meetings, additional reports are presented on other properties, which were not submitted to the Bureau session in April 2002, due to the late arrival of the information. These reports are:

III) for examination and action by the Committee (no recommendation made by the Bureau)

Reports

To facilitate the work of the Committee, state of conservation reports are presented in standard formats. With respect to the three different types of reports mentioned above, three different formats have been used, that include the following information:

I) 	Name of the site (State Party)
The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau (please refer to working document WHC-02/CONF.202/2)

II)	Name of the site (State Party)

Action required: The Committee may wish to take the following decision, as recommended by the Bureau (for background information, please refer to working document WHC-02/CONF.202/2):

" The Committee, ...etc."

III) Name of site (State Party)
Inscribed in … on the World Heritage List under criteria N (…) and C (…)

International assistance:
Total amount (up to 2001): US$ 
In 2002: US$…… for a project on ……………

Previous deliberations:
Reference is made to relevant paragraph numbers from the Reports of the 25th ordinary session of the Committee (11-16 December 2001, Helsinki, Finland) and the 26th ordinary session of the Bureau (8-13 April 2002, Paris, France). In order to limit the length of this working document to a minimum number of pages, texts from those two reports have not been repeated in this document.)

Main issues:

New information:

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

“The Committee, ……………..”

or:

Action required: The Committee may wish to examine information that will be provided/may be available at the time of its session and take the appropriate decision thereupon.

The three types of reports are presented together, but divided by category of properties (natural, mixed and cultural), and by region, State Party and name of the site, in alphabetical order.

Reports on the state of conservation of properties inscribed on the World Heritage List

NATURAL HERITAGE

Africa

Taï National Park (Cote d’Ivoire)
Year of inscription on the World Heritage List: 1982 ; Criteria N (iii), (iv) 

International assistance:  US$ 30,000 under Technical Cooperation (1983); US$7,500 under Preparatory Assistance (1990)

Previous deliberations: None

Main issues:	Reports on Taï National Park have for many years indicated the severe impact caused by heavy wildlife poaching and organized hunting, human encroachment particularly by local agricultural communities, as well as by the influx of refugees from the neighbouring countries of Sierra Leone and Liberia.

New information:
IUCN has  received a copy of the 2001 Tropenbos Côte d’Ivoire report La chasse et la filière viande de brousse dans l’espace Taï, Côte D’Ivoire, by H.-U. Caspary, I. Koné, C. Prouot and M. De Pauw.  The study focuses on the different forms of hunting as well as the different activities in the bush meat supply chain in the Taï region, including the World Heritage site.  It deals with the role of different actors involved in wildlife exploitation and is intended as a contribution to the discussion on the development of new wildlife management strategies with a view to the announced reopening of hunting in Côte d’Ivoire.  

Results of the study include:

•	Approximately 20,000 subsistence hunters, 600 semi-professional hunters and 60 professional hunters operate in the periphery of Taï National Park;
•	The yearly game takeoff by subsistence hunters occurs principally in the peripheral zone of the Park.  It comprises rodents and other small game species and reflects the impoverished range of wildlife in agricultural areas;  
•	The takeoff by professional hunters occurs within the Park and the neighbouring gazetted forests and is estimated at between 56 and 76 tones per annum, largely consisting of primary forest species particularly monkeys and bovidae;
•	The range of game sold in rural restaurants differs between the east and west of the Park, with the west offering a more diverse selection, of which more than 50% are protected species;
•	In the urban areas of the Taï region, livestock meat was more abundant than bush meat, however in rural markets the quantity of livestock meat was similar or lower than bush meat, particularly in the west of the Park;
•	The possibilities for intervention in the bush meat supply chain in the Taï region depend on two important factors ie: 1) the decision of the Ivorian Government to give a ruling on the conditions for re-opening hunting in the country, and 2) the knowledge of the ecological parameters of game in rural areas, eg: densities, carrying capacity and the maximum sustainable takeoff rate.

The report makes several recommendations in light of the Government’s announcement to re-open hunting, including:

•	Support the drawing up of the necessary conditions for the reopening of hunting;
•	Encourage breeding programmes and research (eg: population dynamics, densities, carrying capacities);
•	Intensify surveillance to reduce hunting in the Park;
•	Plan, carry out and control hunting experimentally in the Taï region in close collaboration with the local population and according to defined criteria;
•	Develop methods for monitoring fauna and hunting, especially in future hunting zones.

IUCN received additional reports on the wildlife situation at the site: 

•	In most parts of the Park, poaching has literally emptied the forest of the larger vertebrates, and poachers are shooting hornbills for consumption.
•	In the east, poaching camps with well-maintained trails wide enough to drive a scooter have been observed. 
•	A World Bank financed road built from Abidjan to San Pedro along the coast in the early 1990’s opened the Southern part of the Park to poaching. Here, chimpanzee populations documented in 1990 had disappeared by 1994. 
•	There is some evidence that the prohibition on hunting is threatening the survival of traditional knowledge held by subsistence hunters, while industrial poaching has risen due to lack of political will and ability to apply/enforce the law.  

IUCN notes the study confirms again the link between food security and wildlife consumption.  IUCN also notes the principal threat to wildlife is not subsistence hunting but large-scale commercial poaching.  The availability and price of meat from domestic livestock sources versus bush meat is having consequences for hunting pressure on wildlife.  This strongly supports the need to link authorities responsible for public health, food security and wildlife/game management.

IUCN notes that wildlife protection requires effective management, including well armed and trained anti-poaching units as well as investment (development aid) in education, health, infrastructure, public services and economic activities in the areas adjacent to the Park.

For hunting to be a sustainable activity, the Park must be effective in conserving wildlife and have mechanisms to ensure that regulations can be enforced - this is lacking in the Taï area.   Prohibition of hunting is meaningless unless rigorously enforced.  Hence a re-opening of hunting, with local hunting associations charged with the responsibility for their resource (rather than large scale commercial hunting licenses) could be an option if this is associated with improved enforcement as well as effective wildlife monitoring.  Local and International NGOs could possibly play a key role in this process.

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision: 

"The Committee requests the State Party to provide a detailed report on the recommendations of wildlife poaching situation at the site, including information on reported intentions to re-open hunting throughout the country.  If affirmative, the State Party should elaborate the plans and methods it proposes to regulate and control the activity at the World Heritage site.  The Committee may also urge the State Party to invite a monitoring mission to assess the state of conservation of the site with the aim of informing the Committee whether the site should be placed on the List of World Heritage in Danger."

Mount Kenya National Park/Natural Forest (Kenya) 
Year of inscription on the World Heritage List: 1997; criteria N (ii), (iii)

International assistance:  US$25,000 under Technical Cooperation (2000)

Previous deliberations:  
25th session of the Committee –page 28 paragraph VII.88

Main Issues: The Committee and the Bureau have expressed serious concerns with regard to the state of conservation of Mount Kenya, particularly the uncontrolled forest land excisions, in the Mount Hombe and Ragat blocks of Mount Kenya Forest, outside the World Heritage site, and the extensive plantations of Cannabis sativa in the Park which has caused grave problems.  

New information:  In response to the Centre’s letter dated 20 December 2001 informing the State Party of the decision of the Committee to request a mission to enable an independent assessment of the state of the conservation of the World Heritage site, an e-mail response dated 22 April 2002 was received from the State Party agreeing to the mission and suggesting that it be undertaken during the second half of 2002.  

The State Party has also completed and submitted to the Centre a comprehensive Management Plan for the site prepared under the support of an International Assistance amounting to US$25,000 approved under Technical Cooperation by the 24th ordinary session of the Bureau.  The Plan is under review by the Centre.

IUCN reports that in November 2001, it was informed that the Government of Kenya had announced the authorization of de-gazetting of State forests amounting to more than 170,000 acres of its remaining forests.  Forest cover is estimated at between 2 and 10% of Kenya’s land area, with closed forest (canopy covering at least 40 percent), calculated by UNEP using satellite imagery, amounting to 1.7%. The excisions were authorized for, amongst others sites, the Eastern Mau, Western Mau, Nakuru, Nabkoi, Mount Kenya, Marmanet, North Tinderet, Mount Londiani, South Nandi, Molo, and Kapsaret Forests.

UNEP informed IUCN that the forest excision planned for Mt. Kenya (the Sirimon excision) is outside but adjacent to the World Heritage site. The objective of the excision is to provide land for settlement.

The State Party report of 14 February 2002 provided an update on achievements in preparation of the Management Plan for the site:

•	Modalities for management transition from the Forest Department to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) is at an advanced stage;
•	The first consultative workshop was held involving potential donors and organisations active in the Mount Kenya area in July 2001;
•	In August and September 2001, Forest Stations, Forest Guard Posts, tourist facilities and KWS ranger posts were visited to collect information on their general state, equipment, personnel, the plantations, cultivation by non-residents of the area;
•	These ground surveys were complemented by an aerial survey to check the preliminary boundaries, which were mapped against the background of a vegetation survey conducted by the Conservation of Indigenous Forest Programme (COMIFOR) in 1998 and compared with the map produced by the Kenya Indigenous Forests Conservation Programme in 1992;  
•	Community meetings in all five Districts of Mount Kenya were conducted with the assistance of the Kenya Forests Working Group.  The aim was to solicit views and comments concerning past, present and future management of the National Reserve;
•	District level meetings were held in November, and the final Draft Management Plan was submitted to the KWS in the first week of December 2001.  This was then submitted to various stakeholders for review, and subsequently in January 2002, presented to a donor/partner forum;
•	The final Management Plan was to be produced by the end of February 2002.

IUCN has been informed by UNEP that the Kenya Forest Working Group was requested by the KWS to co-ordinate a monitoring exercise to assess the impact of the new management practices put in place by the KWS since its take-over of responsibilities for the site in July 2000.  UNEP also informs that, based on satellite images from February 2002, there appears to have been substantial regeneration of vegetation cover in large areas within the Mt Kenya National Park and National Reserve that were encroached upon up to 2000.  The full UNEP report using sampled aerial survey, satellite images and ground surveys is anticipated to be complete in June or July 2002.

IUCN was provided with a report on the state of conservation of the site, in particular the actions undertaken since 2000 and the results achieved, from the Senior Warden of Mt Kenya National Park and National Reserve, and the Laikipia Research Programme.

The report notes that various enforcement measures have been implemented, including:

•	On-going aerial monitoring to identify targeted areas by loggers and deploy enforcement teams on the ground;
•	Approximately 1,000 cases of illegal extraction of forest resources have been prosecuted;
•	KWS snaring patrols have removed several hundred snares since 2000;
•	KWS is the first institution to address the illegal dumping of waste by the Meru County Council in the forest of Mt. Kenya;
•	35 additional rangers were deployed to Mt. Kenya in January 2002 to improve security and law enforcement.

With respect to community-oriented projects, it is reported that human-wildlife conflicts are being addressed by erecting electric fencing with support from the Billy Woodley Mount Kenya Trust.  Community projects are also being undertaken as part of the UNDP/GEF/SGP Compact project (Mt. Kenya is one of six World Heritage sites selected under the Compact Programme for funding).  Further, International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is launching a water catchment management pilot project on the south-east side of the mountain, and USAID is in the preliminary stage of planning a community development project.  It is reported that the recently drafted Management Plan will redefine the World Heritage site boundaries according to various zones.  The proposed IUCN mission (which is officially called for in the draft Management Plan) will be most useful if it can review the Plan on site.  The report notes that the results of the above-outlined new practices include an increase in tourism revenues by 80% since 2000, and a reduction in forest encroachment from 20,265ha in 2000 to 7,941 hectares in 2002.  The report also notes that as a result of improved forest plantation management by the Forest Department, the establishment of forest plantation in the Mt. Kenya National Reserve (outside the World Heritage site) increased from 539 hectares in the period 1995-2000 to 2,352 hectares in 2000-2002. KWS is undertaking a monitoring exercise to assess the effectiveness of its new management practices, through the commissioning of independent organizations, including the Kenya Forests Working Group (KFWG) and the Laikipia Research Programme.  

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:
 
"The Committee commends the efforts of the State Party to address conservation problems at this site, particularly in relation to control encroachment and implementation of community projects.  The Committee further requests the State Party to provide for review by the Centre and IUCN: a final copy of the KFWG/Laikipia et al. report; a map of the proposed Sirimon Forest excision, clearly showing its relationship to the World Heritage site, as well as the location of the increase in plantation forest; and an update on the proposed excision including information on any EIA undertaken for the excision and the consideration of the impacts on the World Heritage site, including measures to be employed to mitigate these impacts.  Further, the Committee welcomes the invitation from the State Party for a mission to the site in the second half of 2002."

Ngorongoro Conservation Area (United Republic of Tanzania)
Year of inscription on the World Heritage List: 1979; Criteria N (ii)(iii)(iv)

International assistance: US$ 79,500 Technical Co-operation (Ngorongoro); US$ 20,000 Training and US$ 30,000 Technical Co-operation (Serengeti); US$ 20,000 Emergency Assistance (Ngorongoro).

Previous deliberations: 
25th session of the Committee –Annex IX page 107 paragraph III.20

Main issues: 	Ngorongoro Conservation Area was included in the List of World Heritage in Danger in 1984 due to poaching and threats posed by illegal agricultural encroachments. Continuous monitoring and technical assistance projects contributed towards improving the state of conservation leading to the removal of the site from the List of World Heritage in Danger in 1989.  Recent increased and growing pressure for land as well as increased overgrazing and tourist vehicle activity cause major threats to the site.

New information:  The 25th session of the Committee requested a report from the State Party on the encroachment situation in the northern section of the site and the impacts of commercial farming.  The Committee’s request was transmitted to the State Party by a letter dated 20 December 2001.  No report from the State Party has been received by the Centre and IUCN to date.

In a letter dated 17 April 2002, the Centre was informed that a representative from the UNESCO Dar–es–Salaam Office attended the 68th session of the Board Meeting of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) held on 4 April 2002.  During this meeting, the Board Members tabled the question of cultivation in Ngorongoro.   The UNESCO staff member conveyed the Centre’s concern about the reports received concerning increasing cultivation in Ngorongoro and advised the NCAA Management to keep the Centre informed on the status of cultivation and the measures that are being taken to remedy the problem.  In the same letter the staff member highlighted the following as relates to the issue of Ngorongoro cultivation:

1.	In September 2001, the Prime Minister, during his visit to Ngorongoro, announced that all cultivators in the NCA should prepare themselves for phasing out cultivation and that arrangements would be made to identify and develop alternative areas outside the Conservation Area to resettle those rearing livestock and cultivating beyond subsistence level.  NCA resident pastoralists formed a special Committee and met with the President of the United Republic of Tanzania in October 2001, requesting the Prime Minister’s announcement to be reconsidered.  Subsequently, the President, apparently softening the Government position assured the Committee that small scale crop production in the NCA to supplement declining pastoral food was to continue until alternatives for ensuring food security are sought.  He then gave a number of directives to this effect.  (These directives once translated from Swahili to English, will be made available to the Centre).
2.	Land at Oldonyosambu in Loliondo Division has been identified outside NCA to relocate immigrant cultivators.  Details for acquisition are still being worked out with District authorities.
3.	A multidisciplinary team will shortly be formed to advise on the best areas in the NCA where small-scale crop production can take place without causing adverse impacts on the environment and natural resources.
4.	Significant education and sensitization efforts in conservation, involving local politicians as well as residents, will be made by management, highlighting the threat of continued and growing cultivation on the wildlife, the grazing lands and the income generated by tourism.
5.	An assessment of herbivore stocking, of cultivation and disease control in the NCA undertaken in collaboration with the Colorado State University, USA, has just been completed.  The results will soon be available. It should be noted that the mapping revealed that 9,803 acres of land were under cultivation in February 2000.
6.	The University College of Lands, Architecture and Survey (UCLAS) is being contracted to undertake the boundary demarcation of NCA.
7.	Discussions are underway to relocate NCA staff quarters outside NCA, and move NCA HQs away from the Crater rim.

In another letter also dated the 17 April 2002 concerning the vehicle congestion in the Ngorongoro Crater, UNESCO Dar–es–Salaam Office informed the Centre that the NCCA Board Members acknowledged with thanks assistance provided under the World Heritage Fund to study the impact of vehicle congestion in Ngorongoro.  The Office also drew to the attention of the Centre that Japan has started building a tarmac road which will lead right up to the main gate of the NCAA scheduled to terminate within the next year, which makes the study even more relevant since the road is likely to result in an increase in the number of vehicles.

IUCN received a copy of the Ngorongoro Crater Ungulate Study 1996-1999 Final Report (February 2002) from the Chairman of the IUCN/Species Survival Commission Antelope Specialist Group.  The report was requested by the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) to ascertain why the populations of wildebeest and other plains ungulates have been declining since the early to mid-1980’s, and to develop a monitoring programme that will provide the data necessary for the management of the ecosystem.

The report notes:

•	Since the early to mid 1980’s, the number of hoofed animals in the Crater decreased by nearly 25%, from around 25,000 to 19,000.  Significant declines have been observed in the wildebeest and eland and Thomson’s gazelle populations, while buffalo numbers have increased from near zero in the 1960’s to over 2,000;

•	At the same time, other changes in species composition have occurred, such as reduction in the lion and hyena populations, while human impacts inside the Crater (changes to drainage patterns; roadworks, increased numbers and crowding of vehicles) and on the Crater rim and Highlands (increased number of people, development, settlement and cultivation) have grown;  

•	These indicate important changes in the ecology of the Crater.  The report addresses several possibilities for the changes in relative species composition, including: reduced quantity of water entering the Crater, due either to reduced annual rainfall or diversion for human use, and blocking of and other interference with natural distribution of water in the Crater; reduced carrying capacity for plains game due to poor quality grazing, for which lack of a burning programme could be accountable; lower calf survival and recruitment rates and/or higher adult mortality resulting from poor nutrition, disease, or increased predatory pressure; emigration of substantial numbers of animals that failed to return; interference with Crater wildlife moving across or residing in the Crater Highlands.

Fire: The report noted, based on a number of key studies, that the human impact of preventing fire as much as possible over the last 30 years is most likely the major reason for the decline in hoofed animals in the Crater.  Vegetation composition in terms of species, palatability, structure and fiber content are considered to be determinants in the viability of different-sized ruminant herbivores.  Medium and small sized ruminants like the wildebeest and Thomson’s gazelle need shorter, lower fiber grasses, however with the prohibition of burning, grass has grown tall and more fibrous, conditions more favoured by buffalo.  

Water supply: The report indicates that diversion of the Crater’s streams for tourist lodges is possibly depriving the Crater of a substantial part of its water supply.  It cites the case of one lodge on the Crater rim which diverted water from the Oljoro-Nyuki spring to the extent that in the rainy seasons less than 20% of the spring flow is reached, while in dry seasons the stream stops flowing altogether.  

Road works: Road works are given considerable attention in the report, in particular the 1998 road works which resulted in significant ecological and aesthetic damage.  Road works included widening, excavation of source pits (for road materials), and creation of wide shoulders, ditches and culverts.  These had the effect of blocking drainage, diverting water from the Gorigor swamp and increasing direct flow to Lake Makat.  This means that water and dissolved solids that would normally have flowed into the wetland and evaporated are now delivered directly to the lake.  This is impacting the chemistry of the lake.  Further, diversion of water has impacted one of the Crater’s most significant hippo pools and is interrupting flooding of the grassland during the rainy season.

Tourist vehicles: With respect to impacts of vehicular tourism, the report notes that the number of vehicles recorded at one time in the Crater during peak seasons is between 80 and 140.  At Ngoitoktok, one of only two places where visitors are permitted to get out of their vehicles, as many as 50 vehicles have been seen.  The report also noted that if the road network was extended, the number of vehicles could be increased and visitors dispersed as widely as possible.  A suggestion is made for a new road routing.

Select report conclusions: The importance of the Crater Highlands catchment area that provides Ngorongoro Crater with the water needed to support a resident population of 25,000 herbivores and their predators must be placed at the centre of decision making process.  Development projects of any size should have an environmental impact assessment (EIA) that takes into account possible harm to the Crater’s ecology.  A hydrological survey of the NCA is long overdue.  Determining the sources of springs (notably Ngoitoktok), mapping and protecting the aquifers that sustain them, are of particular and growing importance as destruction of these aquifers by illegal grazing, wood-cutting and clearing continue despite control efforts.  Keeping the Crater as natural and free of human interference as possible should be a primary concern of the NCAA.  In the case of fire, however, the need for active management requires an ecologically based burning program; this overrides the principle of non-interference.  

Select report recommendations:
•	Establish a permanent multidisciplinary scientific committee to oversee research and management needs;
•	Commission a hydrological survey of the whole NCA; 
•	Implement the ecologically based burning program, with up to 20% of the Crater grasslands burned annually or bi-annually.  NCA Staff should be taught techniques for controlling and fighting fires;
•	Mitigate ecologically unacceptable roadwork in the Crater;
•	Develop a comprehensive road plan, including an extended network, which will be subject to an EIA;
•	Supervision of tourism in the Crater needs to be carefully but politely exercised.  Limits on the number of cars admitted are essential to limit environmental impact and ensure a high quality experience for visitors.
•	IUCN notes the Ngorongoro Crater Ungulate Study is a credible document.

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decisions:

"The Committee acknowledges the support provided by the State Party to produce the Ngorongoro Crater Ungulate Study, while requesting the State Party to implement its recommendations.  The Committees urges the State Party to consider imposing a moratorium on new development in and around the Crater (Crater Highlands), until the impacts of the current lodges, road system and other tourism developments are assessed, with particular emphasis on water usage.  Finally, the Committee requests the State Party to report on the state of conservation of the site, including its response to the Ngorongoro Crater Ungulate Study, by 1 February 2003."

Serengeti National Park (United Republic of Tanzania) 
Year of inscription on the World Heritage List: 1981; Criteria N(iii)(iv)

International Assistance: US $30,000 (1990)

Previous deliberations: 
25th session of the Committee – Annex IX, page 108, Paragraphs III.26

Main Issues: Impact of hydroelectric project and water diversion in Kenya.  Threat to wildlife migration and populations in both Kenya and Tanzania.

New information:  The Centre and IUCN reported to the 25th session of the Bureau (Helsinki, December 2001) of the potential impacts on the Serengeti and Mara ecosystems posed by the proposed Ewaso Ng’iro Hydroelectric Project in Kenya, including impacts on the wildebeest migration in the World Heritage site.  In this context, the importance of the Mara River Catchment to the site was noted.

As mentioned in the section of this report on the Mount Kenya World Heritage site, in November 2001 the Government of Kenya announced its authorization of forest excisions amounting to more than 170,000 acres from its remaining forests (estimated at between 2 and 10% of the country).  

The Mau Forest was to lose approximately 148,000 acres (60,000 hectares) of land for human settlement.  The Mau Forest is one of Kenya’s remaining moist forests, and is the watershed for the Amala River, a main tributary of the Mara River.  The Mara River is key to the annual Serengeti migration, for which the site is inscribed.  It has also been reported that the proposed Mau excisions will significantly affect the traditional users, the Ogiek people.  The Mau Forest provides 40% of Kenya with water and five of the six major rivers flowing into the Rift Valley have become seasonal in the past few years; deforestation of the catchment is considered a major contributing factor.  IUCN notes that the announced clearing of Mau Forest and associated potential impacts on the Mara River underlines the strong need for integrated catchment management and transboundary collaboration.  

IUCN reiterated that there is merit in the States Parties of Kenya and Tanzania establishing a joint committee through the Commission on East Africa Cooperation Arrangement to undertake a variety of in-depth studies on the entire catchments of the Ewaso Ng’iro, Lake Natron, Mara River systems, including cost-benefit studies on the impacts of forest clearing.  Such studies could also assess impacts on the Serengeti World Heritage site.

Action required:  The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision: 

"The Committee urges the States Parties of the United Republic of Tanzania and Kenya to initiate a dialogue on the transboundary effects on the Serengeti World Heritage site from changes in the upstream catchment, and that  the States Parties should request IUCN, through its Regional Office for Eastern Africa, to support the process leading to this dialogue."

Arab States

Banc d'Arguin National Park, Mauritania
Year of inscription on the World Heritage List: 1989 under criteria N (ii) and (iv)

International assistance:   None

Previous deliberations:
25th extraordinary session of the Bureau – paragraph III.12-15

Main Issues:  Petroleum prospecting, over-harvesting of fish resources.

New information: No report was received from the State Party due by 1 February 2002. In February, IUCN was informed by the GTZ Project d’Appui Institutionnel et Technique au Parc National du Banc d’Arguin that an intergovernmental development cooperation consultation was held on the 17th-18th February 2002 to discuss the state of conservation of the Park.  The Mauritanian representative made reassurances that it would not permit research or exploitation of hydrocarbons that did not accord with the conservation of the Park, and that petroleum exploitation outside the Park will be dealt with within the existing regulatory framework. Concerning the road, experts from the GTZ project expressed concern that the potential consequences on the Park were not taken into account sufficiently in the impact study.  The Mauritanian representative requested assistance with an Environmental Impact Study.  

GTZ has informed IUCN that its study exploring the legality of oil exploitation in national parks in Mauritania and in particular Banc d’Arguin National Park, is due to be finalised by the end of April 2002.

IUCN also received reports on the European Union fishing fleet and its impact on the fisheries of West Africa. The Mauritanian fishing agreement with the EU is controversial, with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), fishermen’s organisations and environmental groups believing stocks will be seriously depleted and local fishermen heavily affected as a result of this agreement.

IUCN has received a copy of the draft UNEP Mauritanian case study (February 2002) prepared by the National Oceanographic and Fisheries Research Centre (CNROP) of Mauritania, entitled Environmental impact of trade liberalization and trade-linked measures in the fisheries sector.  The report notes that international trade liberalization has had impacts on reserves of certain marine species.

Key reasons for the decline are noted as: Permitting fish catches which are excessive in relation to potential resources; Illegal fishing practices; and negative impacts of various fishing agreements, including preferential treatment provided to international fishing fleets over local traditional fishing fleets.

IUCN notes that assistance with preparation of a full Environmental Impact Statement for the road between Nouadhibou and Nouakchott had previously been offered by the Government of the Netherlands in 2001, but the State Party had declined the offer as it had already completed it own study.  IUCN notes concerns have been expressed with the latter study, as information has been received that it was conducted without any consultation with other governmental services or with stakeholders. IUCN notes with extreme concern the pressures being exerted on the nation’s marine resources from international fishing fleets operating under existing agreements.  This is pushing the traditional fishermen to illegally exploit the Park’s resources, thus potentially compromising its principal function as a reproductive zone of the marine resources of Western Africa.   In relation to oil and gas exploration and exploitation in World Heritage sites, IUCN reiterates its view that mining should not be permitted within World Heritage sites. 

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following:

“The Committee urges the State Party to undertake a full EIA study for the road that complies with internationally recognized standards, in collaboration with interested donors. The Committee furthermore notes the completion of the GTZ study on the legality of oil exploration within the Park and requests it to be submitted to IUCN and the Centre for review. The Committee also urges the State Party to develop and implement urgent measures to protect the Park, above all to guarantee the long-term regeneration of Mauritania’s marine resources, in the face of the intense and unsustainable pressure on the nation’s fisheries; and to extend the areas exclusively reserved for traditional fishing.  The Committee finally encourages other States Parties to the Convention to comply with internationally recognized methods for sustainable exploitation of the fish stock in order to protect the resources of other State Parties, in line with the World Heritage Convention.”

Asia and the Pacific 

A meeting of States Parties’ representatives, including managers of natural and mixed World Heritage sites inscribed on the World Heritage List up to the year 1994, met in Sydney and the Blue Mountains World Heritage Area from 9 to 13 March 2002. The meeting was hosted by the Government of Australia, with the support of the Centre and the UNESCO Office, Jakarta, Indonesia, within the context of the Periodic Reporting exercise for Asia and the Pacific. A regional synthesis of the implementation of the Convention, including updates on the state of conservation of properties inscribed on the List up to 1994, will be reported to the 27th session of the Committee in June 2003. Hence, reports of only a small number of Asia Pacific properties are included in this document for review by the Committee.

World Heritage Natural Properties of Australia

Information on issues pertaining to the conservation of the Great Barrier Reef were raised by IUCN in a report to the Centre and were transmitted simultaneously to the consideration of the State Party. The Permanent Delegate of Australia to UNESCO, via a letter dated 30 April 2002, provided detailed responses to the issues and concerns raised by IUCN. The Australian authorities, IUCN and the Centre have agreed that this, additional information on the Great Barrier Reef, as well as information pertaining to the state of conservation of all Australian sites inscribed on the List up to 1994, will be synthesized in a National Periodic Report that the Government is preparing in connection with the Periodic Reporting Exercise for the Asia Pacific region to be submitted to the 27th session of the Committee in June 2003. 

Action required: 	The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

“The Committee notes that information exchange on the state of conservation of several properties of Australia are underway between the State Party, IUCN and the Centre and that a National Periodic Report will be prepared by the State Party for submission at the World Heritage Committee session in June 2003."

Sundarbans National Park (India)
Inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1987 under criteria N (ii) and (iv)

International assistance:	US$ 20,000 was approved in 2001 as a contribution to the UN Foundation-financed (US$ 105,000) project to prepare a proposal for promoting transborder co-operation with The Sundarbans (Bangladesh) World Heritage site for the conservation of the overall Sundarbans ecosystem.

Previous deliberations: 	
25th session of the Committee – paragraphs III.50 and III.51 of annex IX

Main issues:  Prawn ‘seed’ (larvae) collection; prawn culture; tiger census methodology and human-tiger conflicts.

New Information:	The Tiger Project undertook its bi-annual tiger census of the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve (the core zone of which is the Sundarbans National Park and World Heritage site) from the 7th to 14th December 2001. The census involves the registration of freshly left, hind-leg pugmarks through plaster casts and tracings. It is followed by laboratory and computer analysis to generate the tiger population estimates. The final estimate of the tiger population from the 2001 Census is yet to be released. An advisor to the Chair of the Cat Specialist Group of IUCN’s Species Survival Commission (SSC) had noted that Indian and international tiger specialists believe that this methodology overestimates the number of tigers. Preliminary results from a "mark/recapture" study by an Indian scientist using photo-traps are understood to indicate that the tiger population could be fewer than 100. IUCN believes methodologies and techniques used for tiger census require a thorough review in order to improve reliability of estimates of tiger densities. Rigorous surveys to establish densities of the tigers’ core prey species are also needed. 

A media release by the Wildlife Protection Society of India (WPSI) of 24 January 2002 reports that the High Court of Calcutta issued a notice to the Government of India and eight ministries and agencies instructing them to reply to a Public Interest Petition (PIL) filed by WPSI on the damage that is being caused to the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve by illegal prawn fishing and other encroachments. The aim of the PIL is to try and stop the uncontrolled harvesting of tiger prawn ‘seeds’ (larvae) by illegal encroachment, which is proving detrimental to the fragile mangrove ecosystem. Thousands of fishermen are infiltrating the Tiger Reserve on a daily basis to collect prawn “seeds” with illegal and damaging dragnets. Barges and ships travelling from Calcutta to Bangladesh and the north-eastern regions of India are also encroaching on the Reserve. The PIL asks the Court to instruct the authorities to take immediate steps to: (a) stop collection of prawn seeds and demolish all prawn farms in the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve and within a radius of 10 Km from the Reserve; (b) prevent the destruction and trespass of the Tiger Reserve in connection with collection of prawn seeds and prosecute those found guilty; and (c) appoint a committee that will submit a report on the impact and effects that prawn seed collection is having on the Reserve's environment and ecology.

Tiger prawn “seeds” collection started in the late 1980’s with the introduction of scientific brackish water prawn culture techniques. Before that period fish and prawn cultures were dependent on natural conditions i.e. fish fingerlings and prawn seeds entered “Bheries” with the influx of river water at high tide during new or full moon. At that period tiger prawn seed stocking (concentration) was not more than five per sq. metre. With increasing export value of tiger prawns and the use of artificial culture techniques, the seed stocking density has increased beyond its natural carrying capacity. The natural production of tiger prawn seeds was not sufficient to fulfill the demand, and hence their physical collection from the rivers of the Sundarbans commenced. This practice has not only diminished the tiger prawn population but also a large number of fingerlings and seeds of other prawn and fish species. This is predicted to have a step-by-step impact on the food chain. It will also lead to an increase in the plankton population and a change in the aquatic environment, with subsequent changes in species composition. A considerable number of seed collectors drag their nets along the side of the water courses, causing erosion and preventing the establishment of mangrove seedlings on the mudflats. IUCN notes that tiger prawn seed harvesting can pose a serious threat to the ecosystem of the Sundarbans as a whole, and has implications for the sustainability of the fisheries in the region.

Eighteen persons have been killed by tigers in the Sundarbans (including fishermen, honey collectors and wood-cutters), and four persons injured during 2000 - 2001. To control tiger straying, the Reserve has trained staff in immobilization (tranquillization of tigers to enable capture and release back in the Reserve), and new tranquillization equipment has been purchased. Speedboats are being employed in order to reduce reaction time to emergencies. Use of nylon fencing has been found to be very effective and it is planned to expand its use in all sensitive areas. Meetings with villagers and local government are held regularly.

About 40,000 tourists visit the Sundarbans every year. A tourist lodge has been established at Sajnekhali. The entry of tourists requires payment of a fee, and is restricted to the buffer area. Participatory Management is practiced in the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve. Ten Forest Protection Committees and 14 Eco-Development Committees have been formed in the fringe areas of the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve. A number of eco-development activities are being undertaken in partnership with these committees, including: construction of irrigation channels, ponds, tube wells, paths and jetties; development of fish and crab culture; provision of solar power and the establishment of medical camps, and vocational training.

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision: 

“The Committee invites the State Party to provide up-to-date information on the current status of the Public Interest Petition (PIL) on the impacts of tiger prawn seed harvesting and the measures taken by authorities to address the concerns raised by the PIL. The Committee recommends that the State Party consider undertaking, with the participation of Indian and international scientists, a review of methodologies and techniques used for tiger census to improve reliability of estimates of the tiger population in the Sundarbans, as well as a rigorous scientific ungulate study to establish the available prey base.  The Committee notes the offer of support to the State Party from IUCN and the IUCN/SSC Cat Specialist Group. The Committee invites the State Party to consider these issues within the context of the review of the state of conservation of the site as part of the Periodic Reporting process now underway for reporting at the 27th session of the Committee in June 2003”. 

Kaziranga National Park (India)
Inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1985 under criteria N (ii) and (iv)

International assistance:	US$ 50,000 as technical co-operation for purchase of equipment and improving facilities for communications and interpretation.

Previous deliberations:	
25th session of the Committee – paragraphs III. 52 – III. 53 of annex IX
25th session of the Bureau – paragraphs V.122 – V.125

Main issues: Rhino poaching; illegal encroachment by villagers; integrated planning and management to incorporate community needs and aspirations; human-elephant conflicts.

New information:  An IUCN/Government of India mission to Assam, supported by the Centre and UNESCO, New Delhi, was fielded from 5 to 16 February 2002 and included a two-day visit to Kaziranga. The mission noted the following:
(a)	Illegal activities appear to be more or less under control, though the overall situation facing the one-horned rhinoceros – the prime target for poaching – remains serious. Armed confrontations between Park staff and poachers occur from time-to-time. All efforts are undertaken to minimize the number of animals killed each year but total control of all illegal killing of rhinoceros appears impossible as poachers enter the Park from many locations along the Brahmaputra River and are frequently harboured and assisted by some of the numerous subsistence farmers living in the buffer zone and other areas surrounding the Park;
(b)	Extreme poverty and high population densities around the Park make the development and implementation of community-based economic alternative for poverty reduction a challenging task and one that is probably beyond the limited capacity and resources of present staff;
(c)	There is no approved management plan, however, a draft plan is nearing completion. Lack of data has made it difficult to formulate appropriate management strategies and/or sustainable rural development activities, and the management planning process lacks consultative mechanisms;
(d)	The operating budget, infrastructure, equipment and the present management structure are inadequate and, in particular, there are insufficient staff with good experience and training in protected areas management; 
(e)	Fluctuating and unpredictable levels of financial and technical resources limit the ability of the Director and Park staff to implement management and development programmes in a phased and orderly manner; 
(f)	Community “eco-development” programs appear to be focused on providing rural development infrastructure; but programme implementation is not effectively linked to engendering support for the Park’s primary objectives of nature conservation and consequently do not adequately contribute to resolving the human induced threats facing the site.  In addition there appears to be inadequate attention and resources paid to enhancing relations with the local communities around the Park. Specialized skills for communicating and working with local people may have to be provided to the staff through training activities; 
(g)	The Park has developed and implemented a wide range of effective anti-poaching measures. These include a ban on fishing as it was found that local fishers were using fishing activities as a cover for other illegal activities including rhino poaching; 
(h)	Elephant-human conflicts include a complex set of events that involve ecological and social factors. Reports indicate that, annually, an allocation is made to compensate village people for the damage that elephants inflict on crops, houses and property. There do not seem to be any special provisions for compensating for loss of human life resulting from conflicts; and 
(i)	All of the facilities funded by the US$50,000 emergency assistance grant provided by the Committee in 1997 are completed and operational. A number of the guard posts funded under the grant were inspected and the workmanship of these facilities appears to be of acceptable standard. 

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

“The Committee commends the National and State Government for having provided adequate resources to establish and maintain control over poaching, encroachment and illegal activities. The Committee notes that the level of on-the-ground presence of staff, and law enforcement and patrolling mechanisms backed up by relevant communication facilities are satisfactory. The Committee invites the National and State Governments to accelerate the finalization of the management plan, ensure the steady and predictable flow of technical and financial support and recognize the need to introduce consultative and transparent management planning processes.  In this way the needs of local communities would be integrated, while informing and educating them on the Park’s local, national and global significance. The Committee urges the authorities concerned to explore ways and means of developing, as part of the management planning process, (i) an outreach and community strategy, (ii) conservation education and awareness programmes, (iii) a research agenda focusing on key management issues, (iv) tourism-related activities and programmes. The Committee urges the Centre to co-operate with the State Party to explore ways and means to increase direct support for the site from the World Heritage Fund, donors like the UN foundation and other sources."

Komodo National Park (Indonesia)
The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau in document WHC-02/CONF.202/2, paragraphs  XII.3 – XII.5

Lorentz National Park (Indonesia)
Inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1999 under criteria N(i), (ii) and (iii).

International assistance: 	US$ 15,000 as preparatory assistance and US$ 30,000, at the 25th session of the Bureau in June 2001, for strategic planning.

Previous deliberations:
25th session of the Committee – paragraphs III.57 – III. 60 of annex IX
25th session of the Bureau – paragraphs VII.26 – VII. 28

Main issues: Strategic planning. Overlap between Park boundaries and mining concessions. Government-NGO-industry co-operation. 

New Information:  The State Party, by letter of 13 March 2002, provided the following information: (a) the Government of Indonesia has continued to co-ordinate with the WWF Indonesia-Sahul Programme field data gathering for strategic planning purposes; (b) problems related to the overlap of the Park borders with the concession of the Conoco Enterprise Ltd remain and discussions between the Ministry of Forestry, Ministry of Energy and Minerals and Conoco continue in an effort to seek a resolution of the matter; and (c) with regard to the proposed UNESCO/IUCN monitoring mission to the site in December 2002, recommended by the Committee at the time of inscription of the site in 1999, the Government of Indonesia will inform the Centre of the appropriate time for such a visit.

Action required: 	The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

“The Committee invites the State Party to determine the appropriate time for the mission as soon as possible and inform the Centre and IUCN well in advance of the date so that the mission can be planned to address all issues relevant to the strengthening of the state of conservation of this site. The Committee requests the State Party to elaborate on the continuing problems with the Park border and concession in advance of the mission. The Committee recommends that a detailed report on the mission be presented to the 27th session of the Committee in June 2003."
Gunung Mulu National Park (Malaysia)
Inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2000 under criteria N (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv)

International assistance: 	None

Previous deliberations:
25th session of the Committee – paragraphs 61 – 66 of annex IX

Main issues: Possible extension of the Park; consultation with indigenous communites in proposed extension.

New information:  The State Party informed the Centre, by letter of 30 January 2002, that the Gunung Buda National Park, which lies adjacent to the Gunung Mulu World Heritage site, was declared a National Park on 14 September 2000 and that at present there is no decision taken to enlarge the World Heritage site to include the Gunung Buda National Park. Therefore, the State Party has noted that the question of conducting negotiations with the indigenous people on this possible extension does not arise. 

Action required:  The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

“The Committee notes that no decision regarding the possible extension of the Gunung Mulu World Heritage site to include the Gunung Buda National Park has been made. The Committee recommends that the Centre and IUCN continue to communicate with the State Party and raise the issue of the possible participation of indigenous people in the planning of the extension of the World Heritage site at the appropriate time in the future."

Royal Chitwan National Park (Nepal)
The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau in document WHC-02/CONF.202/2, paragraphs XII.6 – XII.10

Ha Long Bay (Vietnam)
The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau in document WHC-02/CONF.202/2, paragraphs XII.11– XII.13

Europe and North America

Pirin National Park (Bulgaria)
Inscribed in 1983 on the World Heritage List under criteria N (i) (ii) (iii)

International assistance: 	None

Previous deliberations: 25th extraordinary session of the Bureau – paragraphs  III.97-99.
25th session of the Committee – paragraph VIII.85.
26th session of the Bureau – paragraph VII.14-18

Main issues: Ski development.

New information:  The full report of the UNESCO-IUCN mission is contained in document WHC-02/CONF.202/INF.09. IUCN received information in late March 2002 regarding the release of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) for a new ski run (Bandersihka polyana – Todorka Peak Ski Run) and two ski lifts. These are part of the Territorial Development Plan (TDP).  Notable was mention of the proposal to grade 97% of the ski run between 1,603m and 2,536m, on gradients of 20-50%.  IUCN was informed that the EIA for the Bandersihka polyana – Todorka Peak Ski Run states: “conducting of significant earthworks for the purposes of modelling the terrain shall be banned, excluding the initial, medium and final lift station and sites for the lift poles.”  IUCN received a copy of the letter by the Minister of Environment and Waters dated 29 March 2002, which provided a map of Pirin National Park boundaries (current and 1987 area); and TDP area with the concession area of 99.55 ha within the site. It informed that the draft of the Management Plan will be ready in February 2003, with the final version submitted for approval in March 2003 and indicated the State Party’s intention to nominate enlargement of the site, to coincide with the present area of the National Park (40,332.4ha), and its submission of a request for preparatory assistance; IUCN underlines that the letter notes that the Bulgarian Ministry of Culture takes part in World Heritage meetings, and hence the Ministry of Environment and Water will not be participating. 

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following revised decision based on a recommendation transmitted by the 26th session of the Bureau:

 "The Committee notes the results of the report provided by the UNESCO-IUCN mission to the site and the number of existing and potential threats to the values and integrity of the site, including boundary issues, the lack of a management plan, and a new ski development proposal with forest disturbance. The Committee welcomes the response by the State Party to some of the concerns raised by the mission report, and acknowledges the support provided by the Swiss Government to the Bulgarian-Swiss Biodiversity Conservation Project, which is preparing the Management Plan for the site.  The Committee urges the State Party to implement the recommendations of the mission and take remedial actions to ensure that the World Heritage values of the site are protected. These actions should include: the development of effective management controls, reforestation of disturbed areas, the creation of a scientific advisory body and the provision of an interim management plan awaiting the management plan which should be finalized as a matter of urgency. The Committee welcomes the immediate response by the State Party to some of the concerns raised by the mission and invites the authorities to apply for international assistance as indicated in the mission report. The Committee defers a decision to inscribe Pirin on the List of World Heritage in Danger until its 27th session, with decisions on this to be based on an assessment of the effectiveness of the State Party’s response to the UNESCO/IUCN Mission Report.”

Nahanni National Park (Canada)
Inscribed in 1978 on the World Heritage List under criteria N (ii) (iii)

International Assistance: 	None

Previous deliberations:	
25th extraordinary session of the Bureau – paragraphs III.101-103
25th session of the Committee – paragraph VIII. 97

Main issues: Mining, proposed expansion of site.

New information:  The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) informed IUCN in January 2002 that, while there was great potential for enhanced protection of the Nahanni National Park Reserve (NNPR) ecosystem through the Deh Cho process and potential expansion of the Park boundaries, the proposed Canadian Zinc Corporation mine at Prairie Creek 32km upstream from the Park is of grave concern.  IUCN is informed that the mine site is situated in a very narrow, steep-sided valley, in close proximity to the Creek.

Parks Canada reported on 7 February 2002 it was awaiting the results of an Environmental Assessment Study by the Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board (MVEIRB) on a zinc mine in the South Nahanni River watershed that could have an impact on the World Heritage site, before determining any action. A proposal to re-open a road to the site to move a diesel fuel cache was dropped and the fuel will be incinerated on site.  It also reported that production had resumed under a previously approved licence, at a tungsten mine located on the Flat River, upstream from the NNPR.  It is expected that the company will request a renewal of its licence in late 2002, and Parks Canada is working towards establishing a cooperative water monitoring programme with the company.  In addition, a proposal has been made to undertake seismic studies downstream of the NNPR in August 2002.

IUCN received a copy of the (MVEIRB) Report of Environmental Assessment on the Canadian Zinc Corporation Underground Decline/Exploratory Drilling and Metallurgical Pilot Plant Developments of 22 January 2002. The assessment considered several issues, including the integrity of the tailings facility and the potential impact of its failure on water quality; the potential impact of changes to water quality from the development affecting the Bull Trout, Salvelinus confluentus, which is a vulnerable species, and the potential of the proposed development to affect the ecological integrity of nearby Nahanni National Park.

The MVEIRB concluded that the proposed development is likely to have a significant adverse impact on the environment, including an adverse effect on water quality as a result of drainage from the rock and ore pile into Prairie Creek. The mine was subject to an environmental review in the early 1980’s, however the context for the development had changed over the past 20 years.  The National Parks Act has been revised, and the South Nahanni River within the Nahanni National Park Reserve has been designated as a Canadian Heritage River; There is a lack of an articulated government policy about land use and development in areas adjacent to the NNPR. 

The MVEIRB noted that conflicting land use and management policy is currently being applied, and expressed its concerns that unalterable land use decisions may result in significant adverse impacts should such decisions be found to compromise the nationally and internationally valued Nahanni National Park World Heritage site. Furthermore, the Environmental Assessment process under the MVRMA [Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act] is not the appropriate forum for a resolution of land use and policy conflicts that are best resolved by the Government of Canada. The absence of comprehensive land management in the area around the Nahanni National Park may undermine the conditions of integrity as set out in the UNESCO Operational Guidelines and the revised National Parks Act.

As part of its recommendations, the MVEIRB suggested that the Ministers responsible decide on the scope and nature of acceptable protection to ensure the ecological integrity of Nahanni National Park, including the possibility of establishing a buffer zone where land use activities are restricted to those compatible with the Park purpose and Management Plan. IUCN received copies of letters from CPAWS to the Minister of Canadian Heritage (15 March 2002) and the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development (27 March 2002) on the Prairie Creek Mine and the results of the MVEIRB Environmental Assessment.  Both letters include the following information: Cyanide, PCBs and diesel fuel have been stored at the mine site for 20 years; A tailings pond is situated within metres of the Creek; Ores at the proposed mine are highly contaminated with mercury, as well as arsenic and antimony; The region is prone to flash floods and has experienced significant earthquakes (as high as 6.9 on the Richter Scale) and associated rock slides within the past 20 years. This situation places the waters of Prairie Creek and the South Nahanni River at risk from contamination, which will be further exacerbated if the mine is to go ahead.   IUCN also notes that there has been talk of expanding the World Heritage site to better protect the Nahanni ecosystem for 20 years, during which time there have been continuous incursions into the surrounding area from mining operations.  

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

“The Committee expresses strong concern with regard to the zinc mine as well as the findings of the Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board (MVEIRB) report, including the comments on the inadequacy of the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act (MVRMA) to resolve the issues of land use and policy conflicts involving the site and its surroundings. The Committee requests the State Party to provide information on how the concerns and recommendations contained in the MVEIRB report will be addressed in relation to the impact on the World Heritage site by 1 February 2003."
Wood Buffalo National Park (Canada)
Inscribed in 1983 on the World Heritage List under criteria N (ii) (iii) (iv)

International Assistance: 	None

Previous deliberations:	
7th session of the World Heritage Committee (1983)

Main issue: Road construction.

New information: IUCN received information in November 2001 on a CPAWS appeal against a 16 October 2001 decision by the Federal Court of Canada to allow a winter road to be built through the heart of Wood Buffalo National Park and World Heritage site.  The initial legal challenge was based on concern for the impact on ecological integrity of the Park, as well as the precedent such an approval would set for other Protected Areas in Canada. The proposed 118 km winter road will cut the Park in two and join an existing all-weather highway (#58) on the west of the Park with a winter road/all-weather highway already running in a north-south direction through the Park.  CPAWS and the Mikisew Cree First Nation have launched separate legal challenges against the road. 

With respect to the Mikisew Cree First Nation legal challenge, IUCN was informed that on 20 December 2001 the Federal Court set aside the decision by the Minister to authorize the construction of the road on the grounds that the treaty rights of the Mikisew Cree First Nation to hunt, trap and fish would be infringed by the construction of the road, that the Mikisew Cree had not been adequately consulted, and the road had been approved without sufficient knowledge of its environmental impact.  With respect to the Park’s World Heritage status, CPAWS’s concerns with the road relate to the lack of a full Environmental Impact Assessment, given the significant impacts identified in the environmental assessment screening process.  The screening identified several information gaps:

Bison: The summer reconnaissance survey component of the screening concluded that “bison movements and distribution along the right-of-way should be further investigated to more accurately assess the probability of movement out of the Park along the proposed winter road during snow-free periods of the year.” This was not done and the impact of the road remains uncertain on bison movements.

Woodland caribou: The boreal population of woodland caribou is classified as threatened by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) and the Province of Alberta.  The screening report concluded that: “overall, insufficient information on caribou populations and habitat use in the vicinity of the road corridor is available to accurately determine the impacts of road construction and operation on this threatened species”.  

Gypsum karst: The road would be constructed through an area of gypsum karst.  Sinkholes, and collapse channels were observed along the road right-of-way. The summer reconnaissance concluded that “although there is evidence that dissolution of subsurface gypsum presently occurs through areas of karst terrain, no comments regarding the appropriate right-of-way placement to avoid future collapse can be made without detailed geotechnical investigations”.

CPAWS believes that allowing a road to be built for non-park management purposes through a vast boreal wilderness will inevitably fragment this wilderness and disturb ecological exchange.  If the project were to proceed, there would be an added risk of an eventual upgrade to an all-season road, which would further magnify the ecological impacts. The State Party informed IUCN on 8 February 2002 that the CPAWS injunction in 2001, as well as citing irreparable environmental and ecological harm and deficiencies in environmental assessment, also focused on the lack of analysis of the expected traffic volume, the lack of a regional transportation study, and lack of assessment of the need for the project or any alternatives.   The State Party also informed IUCN that the Mikisew Cree decision has been appealed by the Government of Canada.  Both appeals are proceeding through the Federal Court of Appeal and will be heard in the second half of 2002.

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

“The Committee requests the State Party to provide information on the status of the proposal and, specifically, the outcome of the appeals submitted to the Federal Court to be heard in the second half of 2002, by 1 February 2003."

Caves of the Aggtelek and Slovak Karst (Hungary/Slovakia)
The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau (please refer to document WHC-02/CONF.202/2, paragraphs XII. 19- 22)

Aeolian Islands (Italy)
Inscribed in 2000 on the World Heritage List under criteria N (i)

International assistance: 	None

Previous deliberations:
25th extraordinary session of the Bureau –paragraphs III.107-109
25th session of the Committee – paragraph VIII. 97

Main issue: Landscape Territorial Plan

New information: The 25th session of the Committee requested the State Party to provide a report on the Landscape Territorial Plan (Piano Paesistico delle Isole Eolie) and the court case challenging its validity.  No report was received from the authorities so far.
 
IUCN received a report on 21 March 2002 informing that 25% of the area of Lipari Island has been quarried for the extraction of pumice stone.  The City Council of Lipari was due to vote to allow an extension of a concession for extraction of pumice from caves and quarries within 40% of the area of the Island.  IUCN was later informed that the City Council had refused to grant the expansion, however it was expected that this decision would be challenged in court. IUCN was informed in March 2002 that the Court hearing on the Landscape Territorial Plan has ruled in favour of the legitimacy of the Plan, but has requested the Constitutional Court to pronounce on whether City Councils should be called upon to decide on territorial planning.  A decision on this could take place by the end of the year.  The NGO, Italia Nostra, believes that if the ruling is in favour of City Councils, the Landscape Territorial Plan will not be achievable, nor will other region-wide planning initiatives. IUCN reiterates its view that mining should not be permitted within World Heritage sites. 

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

“The Committee notes the positive outcome of the Court case on the legitimacy of the Landscape Territorial Plan, but expresses concern that another court decision is delaying adoption and implementation of the key instrument for management of the site.  The Committee requests further information from the State Party with respect to the mining of pumice within the World Heritage site, and urges the State Party to disallow expansion of pumice extraction, as it may impact on the values for which the site was inscribed on the World Heritage List. It requests the State Party to provide a report on this situation by 1 February 2003.”

Lake Baikal (Russian Federation)
Inscribed in 1996 on the World Heritage List under criteria N (i) (ii) (iii) (iv)

International assistance: US$ 30,000 for a training seminar in 1999;

Previous deliberations:
25th session of the Bureau – paragraph V.281
25th session of the Committee – paragraphs VIII 89-94
26th session of the Bureau – paragraph XII. 23-29

Main issues: Federal Law; pollution; pulp and paper mill, decline in seal population; Baikal Commission; oil and gas pipeline; oil and gas exploration.

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision as recommended by the 26th session of the Bureau (for background information please refer to document WHC-02/CONF.202/2, paragraphs XII. 23-29):

“The Committee notes that there remain serious concerns in relation to the state of conservation of this site, particularly in relation to pollution impacts, including from the Baikalsk Pulp and Paper Mill, the lack of progress with the Federal Law “On the Protection of Lake Baikal”, the establishment of the Baikal Commission, and uncertainties about gas exploration and exploitation in the Selenga Delta. Having considered the report provided by the State Party and the comments provided by IUCN, the Committee decides to include Lake Baikal on the List of World Heritage in Danger. 

The Committee furthermore requests the State Party to provide the following: 

Precise time-schedules for implementation of the first stage of the BPPM Programme in the next 1-2 years. Concerning the Baikal Law: a map of the zones, indicating clear and logical borders. For the Baikal Commission: documentation detailing the establishment of the co-ordination body, including means of establishment, mandate, composition, date of commencement of duties, competence. Concerning the Baikal Seals: information on the training of legal hunters and establishment of a sound monitoring regime; and finally for the Gas Exploration in the Selenga Delta: clear statement of intentions if and when gas is found through “scientific research".  Furthermore, the Committee recommends that regular meetings between the State Party, the UNESCO Moscow Office and IUCN-CIS be encouraged to improve co-operation and communication".
	
Volcanoes of Kamchatka (Russian Federation)
The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau (please refer to document WHC-02/CONF.202/2, paragraphs XII. 30-33)

Doñana National Park (Spain)
Inscribed in 1994 on the World Heritage List under criteria N (ii) (iii) (iv)

International assistance: 	None

Previous deliberations: 
25th extraordinary session of the Bureau – paragraphs III. 122-126
25th session of the Committee – paragraph VIII.97
26th session of the Bureau – paragraphs XII. 34-35

Main issues: Mining spill in 1998; species decline; pilgrimage impacts; grazing impacts, illegal water extraction; plans for up-stream port expansion.

New information: In addition to the information provided to the last session of the Bureau, IUCN notes that in response to the lynx crisis, the State Party announced in late March 2002 the launch of an 8 million Euro initiative to save the Iberian Lynx.  This will involve: protection and restoration of potential habitat; ending the isolation of the various populations; increasing the number of rabbits and other prey; improve access to water; remove man-made obstacles such as roads; installation of secret cameras; DNA testing for monitoring purposes, and a captive breeding programme.  

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

“The Committee commends the State Party for its continued efforts towards the conservation of the site, and in particular the initiatives for the Iberian Lynx population. The Committee urges State Party to give priority to promoting integrated regional land-use planning in order to minimise impacts related to irrigation and road design, construction and management around the site”.

Giant’s Causeway and Causeway Coast (United Kingdom)
The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau (please refer to document WHC-02/CONF.202/2, paragraphs XII. 36- 40)

St Kilda (United Kingdom) 
The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau (please refer to document WHC-02/CONF.202/2, paragraphs XII. 41-43)

Henderson Island (United Kingdom) 
Inscribed in 1988 on the World Heritage List under criteria N (iii) (iv)

International assistance: 	None

Previous deliberations:N.A.

Main issues: management planning, tourism development;

New information: In November 2001, IUCN received several reports that the British authorities had given approval for a private consortium, the Wellesley Group, to develop tourism accommodation and airstrips on Pitcairn and Oeno Islands in the Pitcairn Islands, of which Henderson Island World Heritage site is a part (200 km northeast of Pitcairn).   Associated Press reported on 2 November 2001 that the British Governor of the Islands has asked the consortium to produce a detailed development and business plan, complete with independent socio-economic and environmental impact assessments.  Such a plan would have to consider the long-term provision of drinking water; detail improved links with the islands, including air strips; and outline small and environmentally sympathetic, high-quality tourist accommodation.  Environmental groups in Britain and New Zealand have raised concerns about the impact on the undisturbed environment and particularly the islands’ bird life.  

The Pitcairn Working Group (PWG) of the UK Overseas Territories Conservation Forum (OTCF) sent a letter to the World Heritage Centre on 7 November 2001 requesting that the proposed development, in the context of a lack of a functioning Management Plan for the site, be brought to the attention of the Committee.  Specifically, it noted that the development being proposed by the consortium included tourism facilities on Henderson Island.  The site lacked a Management Plan, despite a draft being produced for the UK Government by a team of experts following its inscription on the World Heritage List in 1988.  With no Management Plan, the correct mechanisms are not in place to evaluate the impact of this proposal on the island's World Heritage values, and to ensure that those values are safeguarded.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), a member of the OTCF, has informed IUCN that there have been several re-drafts of the development proposal, at one stage including all four Islands and a visitor centre/research station on Henderson.  RSPB notes that the Pitcairn Islanders are at crisis point and near to abandoning the Islands due to population decline.  Tourism development would provide employment and encourage those who have left to return.  The OTCF is supportive of this, however believes that development on the pristine, unpopulated islands of Henderson and Oeno is neither necessary nor desirable.  

In relation to visitation to the site, IUCN received reports that though a permit is required to visit Henderson Island, unofficial visits by small boat parties have been increasing.  There is no consistent on-site presence, nor any assessment of the extent to which visits have caused damage, nor whether any of the invasive species are encroaching further on the indigenous biota.  Further, the cutting of timber on Henderson continues for the production of wood carvings/souvenirs.  There appears to have been no assessment of the sustainability of this activity, though the demand for souvenirs increases in number and size of items.  There was always a concern among the Islanders that this activity would be curtailed by the World Heritage designation.

In early 2002, the 1995 draft of the Management Plan (prepared in 1992), was circulated by the OTCF to various NGOs and IUCN for comments.  The majority of feedback from NGOs pointed to the need to implement the Plan immediately, provision for later revision, rather than undertaking to produce another revised Plan and hence delaying implementation further. 

The draft Plan and the collated comments were presented to the Overseas Territories Department of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in February 2002.  The Department expressed interest in moving forward with the Management Plan and it has subsequently been agreed that a small team, headed by a member of the Pitcairn Working Group of the OTCF, would visit Pitcairn in July/August 2002 to negotiate amendments to the draft Plan with the Islanders.  

On 18 January 2002 the World Heritage Centre wrote to the State Party requesting information on the proposed developments as well as copies of the Management Plan for the site, for review by IUCN.  This report has yet to be received, however IUCN has received a copy of the 1995 (1992) draft management plan from the OTCF.  Some general IUCN comments on the plan are as follows:

The plan is an adequate basis for current management.  The primary step should be to implement it and then it should be subject to periodic review.  The plan requires more information with respect to: geomorphic description, delineation of the vegetation associations, and biotic changes and trends; Prevention of introduction of alien fauna and flora is critical and requires effective strategies; Development of Mio and Toa (tree species) as a sustainable resource is required.  The economic and social importance of the wood carving industry is considerable and should be supported. Development of sustainability in timber harvesting demands a long-term programme. It may be necessary to investigate the possibility of importing appropriate timber in the interim;  Tourism control and other visitor impact: it is important to assess the feasibility of establishing an on-site presence, that is, a very small enclave in a carefully selected site with very rigorous control over rubbish disposal, where two trained Pitcairn families might share the task of supervision, and also share in continuing monitoring of the environment.  On-site provision for visitors other than pathways should be totally prohibited.

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

“The Committee recommends the State Party to implement as a matter of urgency the 1995 Management Plan for this site, with provision for its on-going improvement based on input received and lessons learnt from its implementation and to provide a report on the situation by 1 February 2003.”

Great Smoky Mountains National Park (United States of America) 
Inscribed in 1983 on the World Heritage List under criteria N (i) (ii) (iii) and (iv)

International assistance: 	None

Previous deliberations:	
25th extraordinary session of the Bureau – paragraphs III. 132-135.

Main issue: Air pollution.

New information: The State Party provided a detailed report on the site, as requested by the 25th session of the Bureau. IUCN also received an informal report from the State Party.  It is reported that: The National Park Service (NPS) acknowledges there is an air pollution problem at Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSM), including ozone, particulate matter/haze and acid deposition from nitrogen and sulfur emissions and has invested significant resources to monitoring air pollution for over 20 years at the site.  It has also identified research questions and has a substantial effort underway to address them;  There were no baselines for air quality at the time of inscription, and current national ambient air quality standards are based on human health, not ecosystem health, hence there is difficulty in identifying acceptable and unacceptable levels for full ecosystem recovery.  Commonly accepted and applied international standards for endangerment of natural and cultural sites by air pollution are lacking.  There is no international consensus on which pollutants should be measured, how to measure their effects, and how to interpret the results.  Any effort to do so, needs to be conducted for between 6 and 10 years in order to yield reliable scientific data.

Amongst the measures taken to address air pollution at GSM, the State Party report notes that under the Clean Air Act, the NPS is invited to comment on state air quality permit applications for proposed new facilities expected to emit over 100 tons per year of certain air pollutants.  Since 1980, the NPS has sent comments to the Tennessee Air Pollution Control Board on over 30 permit applications.  The GSM comments recommended that increases in pollution permitted be offset by reductions in pollutant output elsewhere, and that the best available control technology be used to minimise the amount of new pollution.  The report notes that in most cases, the permits were granted without fulfilling the NPS recommendations.  However, since 1998, the Department of the Interior, along with the States of Tennessee and North Carolina agreed to a successful Permitting Procedures Agreement that outlines specific steps for each party to take in the permitting process.

The report also notes that a multi-pollutant reduction strategy is currently being negotiated by Congress, the Administration and the State of North Carolina which would require certain older power plants and industrial boilers to install modern pollution control technology or otherwise comply with more stringent emission limits.  The Tennessee Valley Authority announced in late 2001 that it would voluntarily install sulphur dioxide (SO2) scrubbers on three of the power plant units closest to the Park, which is predicted to reduce SO2 emissions from those sources by over 90%. The TVA is also still  committed in reducing nitrogen oxides by approximately 70% over the next 2-4 years from many of their coal-fired power plants.

A voluntary, multi-state initiative, the Southern Appalachian Mountains Initiative (SAMI), aims to remedy existing and prevent future adverse effects of air pollution on the Southern Appalachians.  It presented recommendations, at the Governor’s Summit on Mountain Air Quality in spring 2002 which stated that all 8 southeastern states that make up SAMI support a multi-pollutant strategy, no less stringent than the current Administration's Clear Skies Initative (multi-pollutant strategy) focusing primarily on year-round sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides controls.  

Furthermore, on this issue, The Washington Post of 27 March 2002 reported that a federal appeals court had upheld the most stringent air pollution control standards in the nation’s history, clearing the way for guidelines on ozone levels and particle emissions issued by the EPA in 1997, in addition to the Clean Air Act to be finally implemented.  The guidelines set stringent standards based on human health.  The next step for the EPA is to designate the places that do not meet the new standards, and then begin requiring States to submit plans detailing how they will comply.  

IUCN acknowledges the considerable efforts taken by the State Party to address air pollution from sources outside the site.  IUCN acknowledges the problems inherent in ascertaining the ecosystem impacts of air pollution, and that impacts will differ for each site.  However, it believes that efforts should continue to assess its impacts and mitigate them.  

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

	“The Committee commends the efforts of the site management and the National Park Service to address air quality problems; it expresses the hope that the implementation of the EPA national ambient air quality standards will have a significant positive effect on air quality at the site, and request the State Party to keep the Committee informed of actions taken at Federal and State levels to address the air pollution problems affecting the site.”

Mammoth Cave National Park (United States of America) 
Inscribed in 1981 on the World Heritage List under criteria N (i) (iii) (iv)

International assistance: 	None

Previous deliberations:	N/A

Main issues: development proposals.

New information: In October 2001 IUCN received reports of a proposal to develop a large industrial estate (1,000 acres), airport (1,700 acres) and transport interchange node (1,000 acres) on Sinkhole Plain, Warren County, Kentucky, approximately 8 miles south west of the Mammoth Cave National Park and World Heritage site.  The development – Kentucky Trimodal Transpark (or Transpark) is planned to be developed in phases.  No Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has been prepared for the development, though the proponent – the Inter-modal Transportation Authority (ITA), an agency of the Warren County Fiscal Court and Bowling Green City Commission – has carried out an Environmental Assessment (EA).  This process is not as rigorous as an EIA and does not include analysis of alternative options, consideration of conflict of interest, or allow for public input.  Despite this, IUCN has been informed that moves to purchase land for the development are underway.

IUCN is aware that there is strong debate within the local communities and scientific circles about Transpark, and a coalition of concerned individuals, organizations and businesses, including scientists, cavers and academics, has joined to form the Karst Environmental Education & Protection Coalition (KEEP) and lobby against Transpark.

Many of these concerns are related to the lack of an EIA, including a comprehensive geo-hydrological study to establish the risk of spillover and backflow of water (and accompanying pollutants) between the Graham Springs Karst Basin, on which Transpark is located, and the Turnhole Spring Basin, in which Mammoth Cave is located.  These are needed to assess the risk to Mammoth Cave posed by Transpark.  For more information, KEEP has established a detailed website addressing the range of concerns with the Transpark proposal at: http://www.stoptranspork.org IUCN believes that potential impacts on the World Heritage site could include: Industrial runoff and oil spills associated with Transpark could pollute underground streams and cause irreparable harm to Mammoth Cave.  Pollution may threaten, through low level toxic accumulation, long-lived cave organisms, and threaten already endangered species.  More than 130 species use the Cave, including the blind shrimp, blind crayfish, cave cricket and endangered Kentucky Cave Shrimp, Indiana bat and Grey bat; Regional air quality may be negatively impacted.  Mammoth Cave National Park is designated as a Class 1 Airshed under the Clean Air Act, which allows no additional degradation of the air quality within 60 miles of the Park.

IUCN received information from the State Party in March 2002, which notes: That the approximate boundary between the Barren River watershed [Graham Springs basin] and the Green River watershed [Turnhole Spring or Mammoth Cave Basin] runs through the property.  Further data collection and analysis are needed to determine the precise boundaries between the two;  A letter of 2 May 2001 from the Superintendent of the Park, responding to the ITA EA, expressed concern that the EA was inadequate and an EIS should be completed prior to any decision by the ITA;  ITA has chosen to make decisions without the benefit of further research.  To date, no federal funding is committed to the Transpark, therefore an EIS is not yet required in the planning process; ITA is currently in the process of hiring a planning consultant for the industrial park.  ITA is discontinuing land acquisition for the airport until FAA finishes the risk analysis on the airport.

IUCN has also received a copy of an official letter by the Superintendent of the Park which expresses strong concern that decisions regarding the development have been made prior to compliance with environmental requirements and without adequate consideration of the environmental consequences.  It recommends that the ITA should “immediately suspend decision making and commit to the preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement in full adherence with Federal Aviation Administration environmental compliance guidelines.”  This letter also refers to a number of inadequacies in the EA including: Lack of analysis of potential air quality impacts for the airport and the business and industrial component of the project; Insufficient water quality analysis. Project should assume that all sinkholes on the site are inputs or tributaries for the major groundwater conduits; Lack of detailed information related to groundwater flow routes;  No consideration of the sound scope of the Park as an environmental value to be preserved and extent to which aircraft noise will be heard in the Park;  Lack of environmental analysis of the entire project and all types of commercial development involved; Lack of evaluation or consideration of cumulative effects of the development as a whole; Lack of adequate consideration and analysis of alternatives for the development, not just within the site, but options for sitting elsewhere.  IUCN has also been informed that a preliminary report entitled Site Evaluation and Design Assistance for the Proposed Kentucky Trimodal Transpark has been produced for the ITA.  The aim of the report (to be completed by the 1st January 2003) is to perform a hydrogeologic investigation of the Site selected for the Kentucky Trimodal Transpark.  

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

“The Committee expresses strong concern regarding the potential impacts of the proposed development and the lack of a comprehensive environmental assessment, in particular noting the potential impacts for hydrocarbon and chemical spills from this type of development and the gaps in hydrological information. The Committee urges that a research program be conducted to include analysis of alternative site options and a detailed structural geologic and hydro-geologic study that includes study of water flow patterns in a range of climatic conditions between the Graham Springs Basin and Mammoth Cave Basin to determine the risk to the World Heritage site.  Finally, the Committee requests that the State Party keep the Committee informed of progress with the ITA report Site Evaluation and Design Assistance for the Proposed Kentucky Trimodal Transpark; the progress of research; and the status of the Transpark project." 

Latin America and the Caribbean

Cocos Island (Costa Rica)
The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau (please refer to document WHC-02/CONF.202/2, paragraphs XII. 44-46)

Galapagos Islands (Ecuador) 
Inscribed in 1978 on the World Heritage List for criteria N (i)(ii)(iii)(iv)

International assistance: 
Total amount (up to 2001): US$ 600,000

Previous deliberations:
25th session of the Committee (paragraph VIII.87 and X.III.B; Annex IX paragraphs III.81-88).	

Main issues: legal and physical enforcement, illegal fishing and poaching, invasive species, tourism

New information:
The Charles Darwin Research Station (CDRS) has reported to IUCN on the state of conservation of the Site. The invasive species project, started by UNESCO/UNF/Charles Darwin Foundation in 1999 has generated considerable follow-up support from other donors. In particular the GEF/UNDP project has been launched and together with the UNESCO/UNF/CDF project will assist in the establishment of an endowment fund for the long-term conservation programmes of the Galapagos National Park and Charles Darwin Station. The visit by the President of Ecuador to the Islands in November 2001 confirmed the Government’s support for the World Heritage status of the Marine Reserve and also for the endowment fund campaign.

In addition to these projects the Government of Ecuador has been granted an IADB loan of about 20 million US$ for marine conservation, quarantine and institutional strengthening. All the projects are moving towards implementation, although incurring some administrative delays.  The loan is a particularly clear demonstration of the willingness of the Government of Ecuador to finance Galapagos conservation.  

The Park Service and CDRS are making good progress on many fronts; three examples are: The biological control of the cottony cushion scale, a pest that attacks 60 native plant species; The eradication of pigs and goats from Santiago Island (the pigs will soon be declared eradicated, whilst the goats have been drastically reduced in numbers); and the assessment of the impacts of the Jessica (widespread, light contamination but few measurable impacts except in the case of Santa Fe marine iguanas).

An important advance by INGALA has been in implementing the process of defining who are the permanent residents of Galapagos and evaluating some of the problems in relation to the granting of residence permits.

Of grave concern, however, is the loss of momentum on the preparation of the four key Special Regulations, which by law were to have been prepared and promulgated three months after the Special Law for Galapagos, enacted in March 1998:

•	the artisanal fisheries regulation;
•	the regulation on tourism in protected natural areas;
•	the regulation on quarantine, introduced species and agriculture;
•	the regulation on environmental control, including environmental impact assessment and audit.

Important progress was made on the fisheries, tourism and quarantine regulations in the first half of 2001 but since mid-2001 there has been little progress.  Amongst the consequences of the lack of regulations are:

•	The principles and directives established by the Special Law for Galapagos in relation to the biggest threat to the islands – invasive species – cannot be fully put into practice;
•	Investments by the Government and the international community in invasive species control cannot achieve their full long-term benefit, because measures to reduce the influx of new invasive species are hampered by lack of clear rules and institutional framework;
•	There are no permanent legal instruments to put local artisanal fishing on a sustainable footing, to limit the capacity of the local fishing fleet to appropriate levels, and to ensure compatibility between fishing, tourism, scientific research and conservation;
•	The lack of set limits makes institutions wary of investment in the local artisanal fishing sector, because it may lead to further growth in the sector and increased pressure on over-exploited resources;
•	The uncertainty regarding the regulation on artisanal fishing is a fundamental cause of social conflict; the participatory management flora exist and generally function well but they need to operate within a framework of the basic rules for all economic activities in the Reserve;
•	There are no set limits on the categories and quantity of tourism, other than the conventional cruise tourism;
•	Attempts to incorporate environmental considerations into planning for projects in Galapagos depend on the goodwill of the proponent and have no clear procedures or decision-making;
•	The more time that passes, the more difficult it will be to implement the environmental aspects of the Special Law.

A second area of serious concern in relation to the legal framework is the mention of a future proposal to reform the Special Law for Galapagos, in order to permit industrial fishing within the Marine Reserve.  

CDRS highlights that this is a sensitive, complex marine protected area, with a unique combination of cold- and warm-water communities and abundant large marine animals.  It experiences marked environmental fluctuations during the El Niño – La Niña cycles, the effects of which may interact with human impacts, such as fishing.  It is arguably the most scientifically important piece of ocean of its size in the world, as well as supporting the majority of the wildlife on which all Galapagos tourism depends.  Industrial fishing in the Reserve cannot be justified or considered compatible with the preservation of scientific and tourism values of Galapagos.  

The third area of concern is the continued illegal fishing, particularly in relation to sharks, which are caught for their fins.  Sharks are a very important component of the marine ecosystem, especially in Galapagos where they are abundant, and they are the flagship of the dive tourism industry, which is one area where significant growth is possible.  Motivated by the high price paid by the Far Eastern markets, both Galapagos and mainland fishermen are catching sharks illegally in large numbers.  Most shark species have low reproductive rates and can tolerate very little exploitation.  The smuggling and trading of illegally caught shark fins is a sophisticated business, made easier by the fact that shark fishing is legal in Ecuador outside Galapagos.  

CDRS believes there is a need for the Government, at national and local levels, to show real political will to curb the problem, through a concerted effort involving Park Service, Navy, Police and local authorities and local leaders.  To date the tendency has been to regard the problem as too socially and politically difficult to confront.

With respect to progress with the Integrated Educational Reform, which is required by the Special Law, the CDRS notes that a steering committee has recently been established by INGALA to guide this process.  To date the process has suffered due to a lack of specialist technical expertise.

The cooperation of the four Eastern Pacific State Parties, namely Ecuador, Costa Rica, Colombia and Panamá to establish a marine conservation corridor between Galápagos Islands and Cocos Island (Costa Rica) is very encouraging news about the will of the State Parties to work for the conservation of the area. The aim of the corridor proposal is to assist the Governments of those countries to strengthen and coordinate national policies, regulations and institutional arrangements for the long-term conservation and sustainable use of the islands and their biological diversity in the Pacific Ocean. The proposal for the establishment of the corridor is currently being prepared for funding from the Global Environment Facility in cooperation with UNEP, Conservation International and IUCN as well as with UNESCO World Heritage Centre.

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

“The Committee notes that there has been significant progress on invasive species and marine conservation, quarantine and institutional strengthening actions, notably through the implementation of the UNESCO/UNF/ Charles Darwin Foundation, GEF/UNDP and IADB projects. There have been clear signs of Government commitment to conservation, most notably the successful nomination of the Galapagos Marine Reserve for World Heritage status and the mobilization of resources to support reserve management.  However, these positive steps are increasingly undermined by the failure to complete and promulgate the Special Regulations, without which the Special Law for Galapagos – and particularly the environmental components thereof - cannot be properly implemented. The Committee urges the State Party to adopt as soon as possible the Regulations deriving from the Special Law for Galapagos, as recommended by the 2001 Committee at the time of inscription of the Galapagos Marine Reserve on the World Heritage List.”

Sian Ka’an (Mexico)
Inscribed in 1987 on the World Heritage List under criteria N (iii)(iv) 

International assistance: 
Total amount (up to 2001): US$ 284,180

Previous deliberations: 
25th session of the Committee (paragraph number VIII.97 and Annex IX paragraphs III.89-92).

Main issues: Tourism development, land use

New information:  New information will be reported orally during the meeting following the submission of the State Party report due on 15 May 2002.

Action required: The Committee may wish to examine information that will be provided at the time of its session and take the appropriate decision thereupon.

MIXED HERITAGE

Asia and the Pacific

Kakadu National Park (Australia)
Inscribed on the World Heritage List: 1981; extended 1987, 1992 under criteria C (i) (vi); N (ii) (iii) (iv)

International assistance: None

Previous deliberations: 
25th session of the Bureau, Chapter V.170-194
25th session of the Committee, Chapter VIII.98-104
Main issues:
•	Contaminated water leaks at the Ranger uranium mine and Jabiluka mineral lease adjacent to Kakadu National Park; incorrect stockpiling of material at Ranger; delayed reporting of monitoring data from both Jabiluka and Ranger by the company operating the mineral lease and mine site; allegations of poor environmental management practices at Ranger
•	On-going stakeholder concern with environmental performance, monitoring systems, and process of sharing of information with Traditional Owners
•	Request by IUCN for appointment of environmental NGO to Alligator Rivers Region Technical Committee (ARRTC) and water management issues at Jabiluka and Ranger to be referred to the ARRTC
•	Consultations with Traditional Owners concerning protection and management of cultural heritage

New Information:

Investigation of contaminated water leaks, stockpiling incidents and reporting delays at Ranger uranium mine and the Jabiluka mineral lease: The World Heritage Centre has received reports from the State Party, environmental NGOs in Australia and the Gundjehmi Aboriginal Corporation (GAC) in relation to incorrect stockpiling of material at the Ranger mine site, contaminated water leaks at both Ranger and the Jabiluka mineral lease in early 2002 and delayed reporting of monitoring data from both sites by the mining company Energy Resources of Australia Ltd. (ERA).

The main incident at Ranger involved runoff from a previously compacted stockpile of low-grade ore following incorrect addition of non-compacted material.  The un-compacted material caused rainfall runoff to have high concentrations of uranium – up to 2000 parts per billion.  

Submissions  from the Gundjehmi Aboriginal Corporation (GAC) and  environmental NGOs note, amongst other concerns, the failure of ERA to report the elevated levels of uranium at Ranger and downstream of Jabiluka for 5-6 weeks, despite the levels detected being above those required for reporting.  

The Commonwealth Minister for the Environment and Heritage in Australia requested a report from the Supervising Scientist on the January-February 2002 incident at Ranger.

In preparing the report, the Supervising Scientist met with all stakeholders to discuss the incidents, and the report takes into account the views of the GAC. The report concludes that the environment and people downstream of the mine were not at risk at any time during or after the incident, with the constructed wetland filter system at Ranger functioning effectively.  The State Party has reported that the GAC, the Northern Land Council, the Northern Territory Government regulators and the Director of National Parks have all acknowledged their support of this conclusion.

However, the report of the Supervising Scientist identifies deficiencies in the internal communication and reporting systems, data review procedures, and environmental management plan implementation protocols of the mine operator.  In response, ERA has agreed with the Supervising Scientist, Northern Land Council and the Northern Territory Government to commit to improving the environmental management systems at Ranger and Jabiluka, by becoming compliant with ISO14001 (an international accreditation for effective environmental management) by July 2003 and being certified against ISO14001 by July 2005.

The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has received the report.  Further information will be provided by the State Party once the Minister has considered the recommendations of the Supervising Scientist.

The report can be accessed at: http://www.ea.gov.au/ssd/ publications/incidents/index.html.

The GAC submission notes that in the June 2000 report “Investigation of tailings water leak at the Ranger mine”, the Supervising Scientist made 17 recommendations to improve the environmental and reporting performance at Ranger. Three recommendations related specifically to: the identification and reporting of mine-related incidents that, “could be perceived to be of concern to the local Aboriginal people or the broader community”; the development of early warning systems, and improving communications with external stakeholders.

GAC cites the ERA investigation report into the January-February 2002 incident at Ranger, which states that while the company, “commits to the full implementation of the recommendations of the Supervising Scientist from the leak incident in 2000… full compliance with the recommendations cannot be achieved with current ERA resources”.

The GAC submission states that, in relation to the desired rehabilitation of the Jabiluka mineral lease, the accepted norm in the mining industry is that all wastes are accommodated on-site within the mineral lease. The GAC request that mineralized material should be used to backfill the Jabiluka decline and not be transported to exacerbate problems at Ranger.

Allegations about poor environmental management practices at the Ranger uranium mine

In addition, allegations were recently forwarded to the Supervising Scientist from a former senior environmental chemist at the Ranger mine regarding incidents of poor environmental management practices by ERA in 1997 and 1998.  The Supervising Scientist, in consultation with the Northern Territory Government, is conducting an investigation into these allegations.  

Alligator Rivers Region Technical Committee (ARRTC)

At its 25th session (Helsinki, 2001), the World Heritage Committee welcomed the advice that the State Party would raise the IUCN suggestion of an NGO representative on the independent scientific advisory committee, the Alligator Rivers Region Technical Committee (ARRTC), with the Chair of ARRTC.  Furthermore, the State Party agreed to refer water management issues for consideration by ARRTC, as appropriate.  The World Heritage Committee requested a report from the State Party for consideration at its 26th session in 2002.

The State Party has informed the World Heritage Centre that the membership of the ARRTC was revised in 2001.  This was based on the recommendation of the Independent Science Panel of ICSU (International Council for Science), following its review of the Jabiluka project on behalf of the World Heritage Committee in 1999/2000.

The State Party has also informed the Centre that the suggestion of the addition of an environmental NGO representative on ARRTC and water management issues were referred to the Chair of ARRTC for consideration and were discussed by the Technical Committee at their February 2002 meeting.  ARRTC considered the written material from the World Heritage Committee on this issue and received a presentation from representatives of the Gundjehmi Aboriginal Corporation and the Mirrar Traditional Owners.  The State Party has reported that ARRTC is not in principle averse to the appointment of a conservation NGO representative, however, they did not support the specific proposal placed before it by the Environment Centre Northern Territory and the Gundjehmi Aboriginal Corporation.  The ARRTC noted that that proposal would not significantly enhance the standing or capacity of ARRTC. 

The State Party has reported that ARRTC also considered the issue of access of the Mirrar Traditional Owners to ARRTC, and encouraged the Gundjehmi Aboriginal Corporation to develop avenues for involvement in the deliberations of ARRTC through their statutory representative, the Northern Land Council.  A planned meeting between ARRTC and Traditional Owners was postponed at the request of the traditional owners.  This meeting will take place during the next ARRTC meeting from 9-11 September 2002.

The resolutions of the latest ARRTC meeting will be made available  at http://www.ea.gov.au/ssd/communication/ committees/arrtc/meeting.html. The Minister is considering the independent advice from ARRTC about the appropriate membership of the Technical Committee contained in the resolutions.  Further information will be provided to the Centre once the Minister has made his decision.

The State Party has also reported that at its meeting in February 2002, ARRTC considered the issue of water management at Jabiluka as requested by the World Heritage Committee.  ARRTC considered that the Water Management System implemented at Jabiluka for the 2001/2002 Wet Season is protecting the aquatic ecosystems downstream of Jabiluka.  ARRTC recommended that adequate time be taken to assess all long-term water management issues and options.  ARRTC will consider the issue further at its next meeting.

Comments from IUCN:

IUCN recalls the decisions taken on Kakadu National Park at previous meetings of the World Heritage Committee, which provide the context in which the latest developments should be considered.

IUCN considers there are four essential requirements that are implied by the past decisions and deliberations of the Committee that the State Party has been called upon to meet:

•	Effective systems of monitoring and management by the company operating the mines (ERA);

•	Independent and transparent scientific oversight by the ARRTC/ISAC and Supervising Scientist;

•	Effective engagement of key stakeholders, particularly traditional owners, including involvement in matters relating to decision making;

•	Prompt action by the State Party to address failings.

IUCN considers that recent incidents at Ranger and Jabiluka suggest that progress on all these requirements has been disappointing.  Unless confidence is restored, IUCN will be obliged to return to the World Heritage Committee and recommend that Kakadu National Park be placed on the List of World Heritage in Danger.  IUCN considers the following as essential elements of this confidence building:

1.	Prompt reporting on leakages: IUCN notes with concern the continuing water management issues and problems of contaminated water leaks from the Ranger and Jabiluka uranium mines located in enclaves within the Kakadu National Park.  IUCN is also concerned about apparent failings in the internal management systems of the company responsible for mines in Kakadu, Energy Resources of Australia.  These include delays in required notification of elevated uranium levels at both mines and inadequate management of ore stockpiles at the Ranger mine.  IUCN believes that similar regulatory reporting procedures should operate at both mines and that ERA needs to report on all leaks as soon as detected, irrespective of whether the source of the leak has been determined or not.

2.	Meeting environmental standards: IUCN notes the ERA commitment to meeting ISO14001 standards of environmental management at both Jabiluka and Ranger, however expresses concern that as ERA has indicated that it does not currently have the resources to meet the recommendations of the 2000 leakage report, it will not be able to fully meet the new standards.  IUCN considers ERA must outline how it intends to fully meet the new, more stringent conditions, as soon as possible.

3.	Rehabilitation of Jabiluka mine site: IUCN reiterates its previously stated position of the IUCN Council that the desired outcome at Jabiluka should be the removal of the stockpile of ore at the site and subsequent rehabilitation of the mine site to a condition appropriate for inclusion within the Kakadu National Park World Heritage Area.  IUCN also notes the position of the Mirrar with respect to the removal of ore from the site and accepts that the rehabilitation of the site may be achieved through appropriate disposal of the stockpile in the mine.

4.	Appointment of environmental NGO to ARRTC: IUCN notes that no environmental NGO has yet been appointed to the ARTTC/ISAC, in line with its recommendation to the 25th session of the Committee, though the ARRTC is not averse to the idea in principle.   IUCN considers this reasonable request should be addressed as a priority.  

5.	Effective operation of ARRTC:  IUCN recommends that the Committee request the State Party to refer the latest incidents to the ARRTC/ISAC as a matter of urgency.  IUCN also recommends that the State Party be requested to keep the Committee informed on the deliberations of the ARTTC/ISAC.

Cultural heritage protection:

At its 25th session, the Committee (Helsinki, 2001) requested that a report on the process to analyze, define and manage the cultural values of areas on Mirrar land, including the Jabiluka mineral lease and other ongoing measures to protect the cultural values of Kakadu National Park should be provided to the 27th session of the Committee (June 2003)

The State Party has informed the World Heritage Centre that a workshop was held at Jabiru from 16 to 17 April 2002 with the Gundjehmi Aboriginal Corporation to provide an understanding of the Australian Heritage Commission’s Protecting Heritage Places Kit.  The workshop was chaired by the President of Australia ICOMOS, and was facilitated by a representative of the Australian Heritage Commission, with an observer from Environment Australia.  The workshop offered suggestions on methodology to be employed and provided briefing on matters related to the protection of Kakadu’s cultural heritage, notably the Australia ICOMOS Burra Charter that the Gundjehmi Aboriginal Corporation will consider using to address cultural heritage protection and management issues on Mirrar land.

Comments from ICOMOS:

ICOMOS will comment on the new information concerning cultural heritage protection following receipt of a report from Australia ICOMOS.

Action required:  The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

1.	"The World Heritage Committee expresses its concern to the State Party about new leaks of contaminated water at the Ranger uranium mine and the Jabiluka mineral lease adjacent to Kakadu National Park (Australia).  The Committee is also concerned about reported shortcomings in the regulatory reporting procedures at both mine sites and deficiencies in the management of ore stockpiles at the Ranger mine which reduce public confidence, in the management and monitoring of the two sites.  Finally, the Committee stresses the need for a strict environmental regime appropriate to a World Heritage property. 

2.	The Committee notes however that the State Party has reported that the mining company, Energy Resources of Australia Ltd. (ERA), has made a commitment to meet ISO14001 standards of environmental management at both Jabiluka and Ranger by July 2003.  The Committee requests the State Party to provide details of how these new, more stringent conditions will be fully met by ERA.

3.	The World Heritage Committee notes that the Alligator Rivers Region Technical Committee (ARRTC) is not, in principle, averse to the suggestion of including a representative of an environmental NGO on the ARRTC.  The Committee requests that the decision on this appointment by the Minister for Environment and Heritage be communicated to the World Heritage Centre as soon as possible.  Furthermore, the Committee requests the State Party to refer the latest incidents at Ranger and Jabiluka to the ARRTC as a matter of urgency and to continue to keep the Centre informed about the deliberations of the ARTTC.

4.	The World Heritage Committee is pleased to note that a cultural heritage management workshop was recently organized with the Gundjehmi Aboriginal Corporation.  The Committee requests the State Party to continue to keep it informed of continuing co-operative efforts with Traditional Owners in this regard.

5.	The Committee urges the State Party to address all the issues raised above and report on progress to the 27th session of the World Heritage Committee (June 2003), at which time the information will be reviewed."

Tongariro National Park (New Zealand)
The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau (please refer to document WHC-02/CONF.202/2 - paragraphs XII.47-52)

Europe and North America

Hierapolis-Pamukkale (Turkey)
The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau (please refer to document WHC-02/CONF.202/2,  paragraphs XII. 53-55).

Latin America and the Caribbean

Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu (Peru)
Inscribed in 1983 on the World Heritage List under criteria C (i), (iii) and N (ii), (iii)

International Assistance: US$ 5,000.00 in 2001 for the services of a stone conservation expert for the assessment of necessary restoration work on the Intihuatana sundial stone. 
Before 2000: US$ 98,825 for training, technical, emergency and preparatory assistance.

Previous deliberations: 
25th session of the Bureau (paragraph V.135): following damage to the Intihuatana sundial stone 
26th session of the Bureau (paragraph XII.56 to 62)

Main issues: Continued inadequacy of management and planning arrangements for the Sanctuary;  lack of the full implementation of the recommendations of the 1999 mission.

New information:
The 24 February -1 March 2002 joint UNESCO-IUCN-ICOMOS extensive mission report is available as document WHC-02/CONF.202/INF.14, attached to this document is the letter addressed to the highest relevant authorities as well as the recommendations made by the Bureau at its 26th session. The report concludes by formulating a series of 38 specific recommendations.  On the basis of the findings of the mission, the Committee may wish to take note of these recommendations as well as of the recommendations made by the Bureau.  While it may recognize the progress made in certain aspects, particularly the management of the Camino Inca, it may wish to express its very serious concern about the continued inadequacy of the management and planning arrangements for the Sanctuary. 

Action required: 
The Committee may also wish to examine additional information that may be made available at the time of its 26th session and take the appropriate decision thereupon.

CULTURAL HERITAGE

Arab States

Archaeological Site of Tipasa (Algeria)
Inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1982 under criteria C (iii) et (iv)

International Assistance
Total amount: (up to 2001): US$ 98,500.
In 2001: Emergency Assistance: Elaboration of an emergency plan and implementation of the corrective measures for the Archaeological site of Tipasa, US$ 35,500.

Previous deliberations:  
25th session of the Bureau (paragraph VII.36)
25th session of the Committee (paragraph VIII).

Main issues:
Deterioration of the archaeological vestiges; impact of uncontrolled visitation; impact of uncontrolled urban development; lack of monitoring; lack of means; lack of personnel.

New information:
In June 2001, the Bureau approved a request for emergency assistance and recommended that the State Party implement without delay the 1992 Permanent Safeguarding and Presentation Plan to reduce pressure on the site, keep the World Heritage Centre informed on all projects relating to the site, and to submit all studies to the Centre for approval prior to their implementation. 

In the framework of this emergency assistance, the Centre sent in February 2002 a 2-member mission to Tipasa to evaluate the state of conservation, to study visitor impact and to propose corrective measures. 

The mission noted that, in spite of remarkable efforts on the part of the conservation team working at the site, no new measure had been undertaken to reduce pressure on the site and most of the monuments and vestiges are in a precarious and dangerous state of conservation. More specifically, the following problems were identified:

1. Anthropic degradation due to serious acts of vandalism (destruction, theft, rubbish, etc.), increased urbanization in the vicinity of the site and in the buffer zone, continual legal disputes concerning real estate with owners or public or private contractors.

2. Natural degradation caused by sea salt and wind eroding the littoral, and vegetation.

The archaeological site
The situation is characterized by the non-respect of the non-aedificandi and non altius-tollendi zone, real estate disputes concerning the lighthouse, the port and the area situated to the east and west, unsuitable restoration techniques, (use of cement), open sewage canals leading from the colonial town and crossing the site to the sea, uncontrolled vegetation development with roots that are seriously damaging the archaeological vestiges, the non-existence of a landscape development programme and study of plantations to reduce the effects of the north and north-west winds on the archaeological structures, outdated signposting, ground lighting, trails, insufficient surveillance, and finally heavy human encroachment with constructions built within the site. 

The colonial town
The 1992 Permanent Safeguarding and Presentation Plan concerns this town, which was entirely built in what is considered as the buffer zone, and its ongoing development that is detrimental to the antique site. The present two urban planning instruments (Area Plan - POS, and Town Development Plan - PDAU) exercise pressure on the site, as they do not take into consideration the specificities for its conservation nor its boundaries or buffer zone.
Conservation services
One of the major problems of the site stems from its very weak service capacities that are seriously lacking in qualified staff and material and financial means. Furthermore, they are unable to prevent the daily infringement of the different public agents who intervene at the site and its surroundings without any prior consultation with site officials. 

In short, this situation where the boundaries and the buffer zone are not defined, the physical and visual integrity of the site is impaired, and even the authenticity is threatened, has led the two experts to question the need to include Tipasa in the List of World Heritage in Danger. Moreover, it is recalled that the Periodic Report received in 2000 and signed by the competent authorities had already clearly expressed the request to include Tipasa in the List of World Heritage in Danger.

At the time of this report and in view of the above, the World Heritage Centre is in contact with the Algerian authorities and is discussing what actions need to be undertaken. 

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

“The Committee expresses strong concern with regard to the incompatible situation in maintaining the outstanding universal values of the site, which had justified its inscription on the World Heritage List.

Consequently, the Committee decides to inscribe the Archaeological Site of Tipasa on the List of World Heritage in Danger.  

The World Heritage Committee invites the World Heritage Centre to send a new mission to Tipasa, to discuss with the State Party immediate safeguarding measures to be undertaken and to halt all on-going or future actions which might affect the integrity of the site and its buffer zone.  The Committee requests the World Heritage Centre to submit a report to the 27th session of its Bureau in April 2003."

Islamic Cairo (Arab Republic of Egypt)
Inscribed in 1979 on the World Heritage List under criteria C (i) (v) (vi)

International assistance:
Total amount (up to 2001): US$ 233,900

Previous deliberations:
25th session of the Bureau - paragraphs V.198-202
24th session of the Bureau - paragraphs IV.59

Main Issues: Coordination among institutions; authenticity and technical quality in the on-going restoration works; rehabilitation of historic buildings as part of the conservation policy; training and institution building; ground water.

New information:
Following the ICOMOS report of August 2001 on Islamic Cairo and the subsequent joint agreement between the World Heritage Centre and the Egyptian authorities regarding the implementation of a series of specific actions for this site partially funded through the Egyptian Funds-in-Trust at UNESCO, the following actions were undertaken:

1. An International Symposium on the Conservation and Restoration of Islamic Cairo was organized by the Ministry of Culture of Egypt in collaboration with the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, from 16 to 20 February 2002 in Cairo. Attended by several renowned world experts, both Egyptian and international, on conservation of historic cities and Islamic architecture, the meeting included site visits, four thematic sessions on subjects related to the conservation of Islamic Cairo, as well as technical workshops on specific projects among those currently being implemented by the Supreme Council of Antiquities. The main recommendations of the Symposium can be summarized as follows:

1)	To strengthen coordination among all the concerned institutions and to designate Cairo as a single Planning Zone, with a comprehensive Urban Conservation and Development Plan;
2)	To address, as a matter of priority, the problem related to ground water;
3)	To integrate the re-use of historic buildings in the conservation policy, with an emphasis placed on respect of authenticity;
4)	To address the social context within the framework of a policy for the conservation of Islamic Cairo;
5)	To provide training on urban and architectural conservation of staff from the Supreme Council of Antiquities;
6)	To ensure periodic monitoring and follow up through regular meetings and technical missions between Egyptian and international experts on current projects and overall policies for the conservation of Historic Cairo. 

The World Heritage Centre is currently working on the proceedings of the symposium in Arabic and in English, in collaboration with the Egyptian Ministry of Culture and the UNESCO Cairo Office.

2. A preliminary study for a Conservation Handbook for Islamic Cairo was undertaken by the Centre and financed through an Italian Funds-in-Trust, in collaboration with the Supreme Council of Antiquities. This study will be submitted shortly to the Supreme Council of Antiquities for a joint implementation of the project in several phases, under both the Egyptian Funds-in-Trust and the Italian Funds-in-Trust.

3. The Ministry of Culture is restoring Takeyet Abu El-Dahab, an early twentieth-century structure in Islamic Cairo, to host a permanent multi-media Information Centre on the Islamic Cairo World Heritage site and current conservation efforts.

Action required:  The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

“The Committee commends the State Party for its great commitment towards the rehabilitation of Islamic Cairo, and particularly for having opened the debate on the current restoration and conservation projects and initiated, in collaboration with the World Heritage Centre, the activities that the Committee recommended at its 25th session, including the Conservation Handbook. The Committee recommends that these activities be continued and strongly encourages the State Party to concentrate its efforts on the priorities indicated in the conclusions of the International Symposium, in close consultation with the Centre and through periodical technical missions by UNESCO experts who would review and advise on current projects.  The Committee, finally, reiterates its recommendation to the State Party to invest adequate resources towards capacity-building in the area of urban and architectural conservation for the staff of the Supreme Council of Antiquities."

Byblos (Lebanon)

Action required: The Committee may wish to take the following decision, as recommended by the Bureau (for background information, please refer to Doc. WHC-02/CONF.202/2):

"“The Committee commends the State Party for its efforts, in conjunction with the World Bank, for the rehabilitation of the Old City of Byblos and its social and economic revitalization. The Committee, however, expresses concern for some of the proposed interventions, which would be incompatible with the respect for the outstanding universal values, which justified the inscription of the site on the World Heritage List. The Committee, furthermore, invites the State Party to ensure that adequate resources, possibly within this Project, be made available to support the necessary conservation and presentation works within the archaeological area, and especially the strengthening of the capacity and number of the local DGA staff.

The Committee, therefore, requests the State Party to provide urgently to the Secretariat a complete set of the preparatory Studies on Byblos carried out in the framework of the World Bank Project, for examination by the Committee, before a final agreement is reached between the Government of Lebanon and the World Bank on the scope of the activities within this Project.
 
The Committee invites as well the State Party to discard plans for an extension of the jetty, and to engage in a thorough investigation of the under-water areas surrounding the site and the harbour. Finally, the Committee encourages the Lebanese authorities to develop a comprehensive Urban Conservation Plan, including provisions for the areas adjacent to the archaeological site, the medieval enclosure, the areas of archaeological potential on the two sides of the Decumanus Maximus, and the zones to the North and South of Byblos, to protect the site and its buffer zones from further encroachments.

The Committee strongly encourages the State Party to submit requests of International Assistance under the World Heritage Fund, as an integration to the World Bank funding, to accomplish the above-mentioned recommendations, and request that a report be submitted by the Lebanese authorities on the progress of the situation to the World Heritage Centre by 1 February 2003.”

Tyre (Lebanon)
Inscribed in 1984 on the World Heritage List under criteria C (iii) and (iv)

International assistance:
Total amount (up to 2001): US$25,000

Previous deliberations:
25th session of the Committee: (page 37)

Main issues: World Bank Project; Urban Plan and Expropriation Decree; New Highway Project; Natural reserve.

New information:
World Bank Project
In the framework of a proposed Cultural Heritage and Urban Development Project, the World Bank commissioned an urban and an archaeological study for the site of Tyre. At the time of the drafting of this document, the World Heritage Centre had only received a copy of the final Archaeological Study, although a preliminary version of the Urban Study had been made available at the end of 2001.
 
The Archaeological Study, which the Centre finds of very high quality, considers only areas currently under DGA (Direction General des Antiquites) direct responsibility (fenced areas), as per the Terms of Reference set by the World Bank. Therefore, neither the Old City nor the entire zone between the town of Safarand to the North, Ras Al Ain to the South and the hills to the East of Tyre (limits of the World Heritage site as confirmed by the Lebanese authorities by official letter at the time of inscription) were included in the scope of the assessment, despite their great archaeological potential.

The Study highlights the important conservation problems affecting the site and stresses the chronic lack of staff of the DGA. The consultants clarify that a Management Structure for the site needs to be established and estimates at US$ 50,000 per year the minimum budget for regular maintenance works, irrespective of staff costs and any particular intervention. Such a Management Structure would need to include between at least 15 professionals and technicians, as opposed to the only one inspector presently assigned to the site.

The Study recommends various conservation and presentation interventions in the archaeological areas for an amount of US$ 4,595,000, including US$ 840,000 for training activities. It is not clear who would benefit from this training, considering that the DGA has only one staff at the site, nor how the DGA would be able to offer attractive positions within its structure to the trainees at the end of the Project. As for the implementation of activities for such a considerable amount, considering the institutional weakness of the DGA, the consultants suggested that the latter be supported by external technical assistance.

Among the many activities envisaged, the Study does not contemplate the long-overdue preparation of a general archaeological mapping of the entire World Heritage site, which had been recommended by UNESCO as an absolute priority.

The Centre is expecting the final Urban Study to be able to provide its comments to the Lebanese authorities.

Urban Plan and Expropriation Decree
While the Urban Master Plan for Tyre has not yet been finalized, a discussion is under way in the Lebanese Parliament concerning the possible unfreeze of building permits on certain private areas adjacent to the Hippodrome of Al-Bass. These plots, which have been partially excavated by the DGA and have revealed important archaeological remains, had been the subject of a Presidential Expropriation Decree which unfortunately could not be executed owing to the war. At present, the owners claim substantial compensation, which the DGA is not able to provide. A possible solution would be the swap of these private plots with other areas on public land south of Tyre, although it is not quite clear which areas would be concerned.

New Highway Project
A new highway is being planned, which should cross the area of Tyre linking Beirut to the south of the country. The Centre, which has not yet received information on the exact foreseen location of this highway, has requested that a comprehensive Archaeological Study and EIA be carried out before a final decision is made, considering the high archaeological potential of the concerned area.

Natural reserve
Independent sources reported a Plan to develop, for tourism purposes, an area south of the old city of Tyre, but within the boundaries of the World Heritage site, where a Natural Reserve has been established. This area presents one of the most beautiful coastal environments of Lebanon as well as, due to its proximity to the site of Al Bass, a considerable potential cultural heritage interest. The World Heritage Centre has not received from the Lebanese authorities any information regarding such a Plan.

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

“The Committee, while commending the State Party and the World Bank for the very important proposed actions in favour of the cultural heritage of Tyre, requests that attention be paid to the need to ensure the protection of all archaeological areas within the World Heritage site, and especially those presently not excavated and exposed to risk of encroachment. In this respect, the Committee recommends that ways and means be explored to integrate into the scope of the World Bank Project, the preparation of a comprehensive archaeological map of the entire World Heritage site of Tyre, if necessary applying to the World Heritage Centre for complementary International Assistance. The Committee, moreover, strongly encourages the State Party to make all possible efforts to ensure that the structure of the DGA be permanently and considerably strengthened as a matter of urgency to ensure that the extraordinary opportunity provided by the World Bank Project not be missed to build a capacity in the conservation and management of the cultural heritage. The Committee, finally, requests the State Party to provide assurances on the protection of the archaeological areas to be expropriated, and to submit, by 1 February 2003, a report on the status of the Highway Project, as well as on the alleged Plan to develop the Natural Reserve, for examination by the Bureau at its 27th session.”

Ancient ksour of Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt and Oualata (Mauritania)
Inscribed in 1996 on the World Heritage List under criteria C (iii), (iv) et (v) 

International Assistance:
Before 2001: Total US$ 97,069
In 2001: Technical cooperation: US$ 20,000, Implementation of a draft project for the establishment of master plans for the four ancient cities.

Previous deliberations:  
25th ordinary session of the Bureau - WHC-2001/CONF.205/5; p. 24 and 25
 
Main issues: Restoration work carried out inside the historic centres with international assistance; Absence of conservation and management policies; Insufficient personnel responsible for safeguarding the sites; World Bank project.

New information: At the request of the Mauritanian Government, a plan of action entitled: « Integrated Urban Development of World Heritage Cities in Mauritania », aiming at the safeguarding and development of the ancient cities of Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt and Oualata, is being prepared, under the guidance of the World Heritage Centre, by a multidisciplinary team of experts in the framework of the France-UNESCO Convention. 

The principal lines of action of UNESCO, aiming at the preservation and development of World Cultural Heritage in Mauritania and the training of local professionals in the field of heritage management, were presented in March 2002 at the opening of the National Symposium on Traditional Mauritanian Architecture organized in the framework of the Project for the  « Safeguarding and Presentation of Mauritanian Cultural Heritage» (PSVPCM) being implemented and financed by the World Bank.

This action plan is now one of the pilot projects of the UNESCO Intersectoral Project « Sustainable Development of World Heritage sites for Poverty Elimination », and in May 2002 it will be presented to the Mauritanian authorities concerned, as well as to the persons in charge of the implementation of the project by the World Bank.  

During their preparatory mission to Mauritania in February-March 2002, the experts studied the general state of conservation of the four ancient cities as well as the different development and restoration projects carried out or being implemented in these cities.  The technical and institutional framework was also evaluated.  

In view of the continuing deterioration raising cause for concern, the experts noted in each of the four ancient cities a will for change, a general tendency of increased activity, pressure and even real estate investment, often linked to tourism. The planning of new areas is uncontrolled. The distribution of new land is carried out by the Municipality without prior planning of the urban infrastructure, accessibility or balance of the future urban tissue. 

With regard to the activities carried out by the different foreign cooperation agencies in each of the cities, they appear to be independent of one another and with little involvement of the local populations in the  implementation of the programmes.  The ongoing restoration work within the archaeological zone of the Historic Centre of Ouadane, funded under Portuguese cooperation, is being carried out without any prior archaeological research, and without any security instructions. 

One of the main problems of the Mauritanian institutional framework is its lack of authority and absence of institutional coordination founded on the definition of the competencies of the organisms. For example, the "National Foundation for the Safeguarding of the Ancient Cities" (FNSVA), has only two professional staff members, including its Director, no technician trained in conservation and no representation at the sites, which are located at a great distance from the capital, Nouakchott.

To respond to this problem, an organizational and institutional audit was launched within the Project financed by the World Bank and is presently being implemented. 

With regard to the specific problems of each city, Ouadane and Chinguetti are more affected by tourism development, the latter being seriously threatened by sand encroachment, that obliges the inhabitants to abandon the ground floors of their houses.  The city of Tichitt suffered from very heavy rain in 1999, causing the collapse of several houses. Some of the damaged houses have remained untouched, whereas others have been bulldozed and new houses built in their place, but of a different conception.  The need for large-scale reconstruction has created a heavy demand for materials. The stone now being extracted is produced in large blocks, whilst when the city was built small blocks were used. Moreover, this stone is of a different colour, being grey-green. In Oualata, a Spanish cooperation project has elaborated an integral  programme for this city covering the different domains: agriculture, irrigation, and in particular, the restoration of the inner part of the Historic Centre of the City. This work is limited to the restitution/restoration  of certain façades of the most representative old houses which are located on the route of the future tourist trails. Doors are reinvented in these walls, behind which, only ruins remain.  

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

« The Committee recommends to the State Party to integrate the Action Plan developed by the World Heritage Centre in its national strategy aiming at the safeguarding of the cultural heritage, as well as the social and economic revitalization of the cities, and more specifically in the framework of the Project « Safeguarding and Presentation of Mauritanian World Cultural Heritage » and in the chapter « Integrated Urban Development » of the Strategic Framework of the Fight Against Poverty, funded by the World Bank.  The Committee requests the State Party to ensure, in close consultation with the World Heritage Centre and through an appropriate institutional mechanism, that all the interventions at the four cities are jointly coordinated and compatible with the respect of the outstanding universal values justifying their inscription on the World Heritage List.  The Committee invites the State Party to ensure that following the result of the organizational and institutional audit of the legal and institutional framework of the heritage sector, the necessary resources will be attributed for the functioning of the competent management and technical structure for the conservation of World Heritage and the training of its personnel." 

Ksar Ait Ben Haddou (Morocco)
Inscribed in 1987 on the World Heritage List under criteria C (iv) and (v)

International assistance:
Total amount (up to 2001): US$ 79,500

Previous deliberations:
25th session of the Committee: ( paragraphs VIII.128-133)

Main issues:
Legal protection of the site; Infrastructure and Tourism Development projects; Lack of Management Plan.

New information:
As requested by the Committee at its 25th session, the State Party submitted, in February 2002, a report on the progress on the implementation of the recommendations made in a report dated August 2000, including:

•	The completion of the listing process for the site, under the National Heritage Law, including the private properties therein;
•	The strengthening of the capacities of the CERKAS, the institution responsible for the safeguarding of the site;
•	The creation of  a management commission for the site;
•	The establishment of a working team to elaborate a Management Plan, to be completed by end 2001.

The report explains that significant steps have been undertaken towards the listing of the site, but that this has not been completed to this day, owing to the complex administrative procedures required. 
With respect to the strengthening of the CERKAS, the State Party informed the Centre that efforts are being made to grant this institution the status of SEGMA (Service Gere de Maniere Autonome). Such a status would in the future enable the CERKAS to be remunerated in exchange of technical services to public administrations, thus contributing to its financial capacity.  An Inter-Ministerial Site Management Commission has indeed been established and, according to the report, meets every fifteen days to discuss the state of conservation of the site and measures to be carried out. This Commission, which includes representatives from most of the institutions concerned, both at the national and local level, has promoted a series of studies and actions, carried out by the relevant bodies, including water and electrical infrastructure projects; public septic tanks; the construction of parking lots next to the road leading to the site; water-proofing and plastering of the houses and paving of streets within the ksar; the construction of a bridge linking the two banks of the Uadi; and the setting up of a tourism development pilot project.

No information was provided on the establishment of a working team in charge of the preparation of a Management Plan, nor on the schedule for its execution and implementation.

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

“The Committee thanks the State Party for its commitment towards the rehabilitation of this World Heritage site, shown by the numerous initiatives undertaken under the thrust of the Site Management Commission.  However, the Committee expresses its concern at the launching of a series of important infrastructure projects at the site while the listing procedure is not yet completed, and especially in the absence of an adequate Management Plan prepared according to recognized international scientific standards, as well as of a Management Structure capable of ensuring the overall technical coordination and the monitoring of the various initiatives.  The Committee, therefore, reiterates its request to the Moroccan authorities to adopt, in consultation with the World Heritage Centre, the necessary measures for the creation of a technical team and the preparation of such a Management Plan and, to this end, encourages the State Party to apply for International Assistance through the World Heritage Fund. The Committee requests the State Party to submit, by 1 February 2003, a report on the progress accomplished, for examination by the Bureau at its 27th session.”

Asia and the Pacific

Ruins of the Buddhist Vihara at Pahapur (Bangladesh)
Inscribed in 1985 on the World Heritage List under criteria C (i), (ii), (vi)

International assistance: None

Previous deliberations: None

Main issues: 
•	Absence of regulations and codes which conform with international conservation norms
•	Lack of comprehensive management of the property
•	Deterioration of the authentic characteristics of the property

New Information: Following alarming reports on the state of conservation of Pahapur from independent experts, the World Heritage Centre organized a reactive monitoring mission to the property in April 2002. The mission witnessed the completion of systematic removal by the authorities of most of the 1,000 original sculpted brick plaques, which had once adorned the lower levels of the vihara.  According to the authorities, most of the removed plaques were stored, but the mission was unable to examine them.  In place of the original plaques, elaborate new plaques including imaginary decorations created by the local artisans have been placed onto the vihara.  Moreover, the entire lower section of the original wall of the main vihara has been replaced by a new brick wall. The original mouldings and brick work can be seen in three minute areas. 

According to the authorities, the removal of plaques and replacement by replicas in case of severe deterioration was an accepted practice within the original 1983 Master Plan.   The World Heritage Centre mission was informed by the authorities that the Representative of UNESCO's Division of Cultural Heritage, who originally managed the UNESCO International Safeguarding Campaign, approved all actions taken until recently.  

At the time of the preparation of this working document, the World Heritage Centre was seeking further information from the Division of Cultural Heritage and the authorities.

Action required:  The Committee may wish to examine further information that will be made available at the time of its session and take the appropriate decision thereupon.

Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor (China)
The Committee is requested to take note of the decision of the Bureau (working document WHC-02/CONF.202/2, paragraphs XII 78-83). 

Historical Ensemble of the Potala Palace, Lhasa (China)
Inscribed in 1994 on the World Heritage List and with extensions of Jokhang Temple Monastery and Nobulingka respectively in 2000 and 2001 under criteria C (i), (iv) and (vi).

International assistance: None 

Previous deliberations:
25th extraordinary session of the Bureau (paragraphs III 240-244)

Main Issues: Negative impact of urban development and incidents of demolition of the traditional historic buildings within the protective World Heritage buffer zones threatening the traditional urban morphology of the property.

New information: Numerous independent reports were transmitted to UNESCO concerning continued incidents of demolition of the traditional historic buildings within the protective buffer zone of the Barkhor Historic Area, which is part of the World Heritage property. UNESCO received information that a new 13-storey concrete building is being constructed in the Public Security Bureau Compound in Lhasa, whose large scale disrupts the architectural skyline and traditional urban environment of the World Heritage protected areas, as it is visible from all central points of Lhasa.  

On 2 May 2002, the Director of the World Heritage Centre requested the Chinese authorities to provide a full report on the state of conservation of this World Heritage property, including information on the development activities being carried out within the World Heritage core and buffer zones, as well as the areas immediately surrounding these protective zones. 

Action required:  The Committee may wish to examine further information at the time of its session and take a decision thereupon. 

Ajanta Caves / Ellora Caves (India) 
The Committee is requested to take note of the decision of the Bureau (working document WHC-02/CONF.202/2, paragraphs XII 84-86).

Sun Temple of Konarak (India)
The Committee is requested to take note of the decision of the Bureau (working document WHC-02/CONF.202/2, paragraph XII 87).

Sangiran Early Man Site (Indonesia) 
Inscribed in 1996 on the World Heritage List under criteria C (iii) and (vi). 

International assistance: 
Total amount (up to 2001): US$25,000

Previous deliberations: None

Main Issues: 
•	Lack of a comprehensive management plan to ensure integrated conservation and development of the site.
•	Lack of a permanent site management authority to ensure co-ordination between conservation, research and development agencies. 
•	Poor site presentation and interpretation.
•	Low community awareness on the World Heritage values of the property

New information: 
A UNESCO Training Seminar on Conservation, Preservation, and Management of Zhoukoudian and Sangiran Cultural World Heritage Sites was organized in Solo, Central Java, Indonesia, between 15 - 20 April 2002.  The aim of the meeting was to exchange experiences and improve knowledge of the managers of the two similar properties.  The participants discussed ways and means for strengthening co-operation between China and Indonesia for enhanced protection and research of prehistoric hominid World Heritage properties. Taking into account the recently renewed Cultural Agreement between the two governments, the meeting recommended concrete actions to enhance communication and collaboration between site managers of the two properties. 

In light of the complete lack of a permanent site management authority for the property, the meeting recommended that a co-ordinating board for the protection and management site be established.  During the meeting, the Indonesian authorities proposed that this board be established by June 2002.  It was further recommended that the elaboration of a comprehensive management plan be a priority action for this co-ordinating board. The meeting also recommended that a regular monitoring system on the state of conservation using clearly defined indicators be elaborated. 

A WHC Consultant who participated at this meeting noted that this property has expanded to 56 hectares due to new archaeological findings in the Southern Mountains area.  It was recommended that appropriate steps be taken to formally request the World Heritage Committee to include the extended boundaries of the property within the World Heritage area.  The WHC mission also noted that site interpretation as well as community awareness raising could be enhanced through the organization of on-site training courses for the site and museum employees involving local communities. Combined with the capacity building needs for comprehensive management of the property, the WHC mission recommended that technical and financial assistance, such as the UNESCO-Australia Memorandum of Understanding on Co-operation Concerning the Protection and Promotion of World Cultural and Natural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region, World Heritage Fund or other sources, be mobilized to address all of the above issues. 

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision: 

"The Committee, taking note of the report on the state of conservation of the Sangiran Early Man site, expresses its appreciation to the State Party for hosting the UNESCO Training Seminar on Conservation, Preservation, and Management of Zhoukoudian and Sangiran Cultural World Heritage Sites in April 2002, supported by the World Heritage Fund.  

The Committee, noting the absence of a permanent site management authority supported by both conservation and development authorities, expresses its gratitude to the authorities for establishing a "Co-ordinating Board for the Protection and Management of Sangiran World Heritage Site". In light of the lack of a management scheme, the Committee encourages this Board to elaborate a comprehensive management plan for the property including a systematic monitoring scheme.  Moreover, in light of the need to enhance site interpretation and presentation as well as community awareness, the Committee encourages the authorities to seek technical and financial co-operation from the World Heritage Fund and other UNESCO Agreements to increase the capacity of the officers responsible for the conservation, presentation and management of the property. To this end, the Committee requests the World Heritage Centre to assist the authorities in mobilizing resources in an appropriate and timely manner. 

Finally, noting that recent archaeological excavations surrounding the existing World Heritage property have revealed valuable archaeological and scientific deposits, the Committee encourages the authorities to consider extending the World Heritage property to include the newly excavated areas of potential World Heritage value." 

Meidan Emam, Esfahan (Islamic Republic of Iran)
Inscribed in 1979 on the World Heritage List under criteria C (i), (v), (vi)

International assistance:
Total amount up to 2001: US$ 39,000 

Previous deliberations:
24th session of the Bureau of the WH Committee (paragraph IV.66)
26th session of the Bureau of the WH Committee (paragraphs XII.88-90)

Main issues:
•	Absence of a process of systematic monitoring 
•	Development pressure 

New information:
Following an invitation by the Government of Iran, a World Heritage Centre staff member undertook a mission to Esfahan in mid-January 2002. The mission was informed that in line with the recommendation of the 1995 UNESCO Mission, the authorities were redefining and extending the World Heritage protected area to include key monuments and historic architectural ensembles representing the Safavid period urban planning scheme. Soon after the WHC mission, the authorities submitted a preliminary draft nomination dossier for consultation with UNESCO. The WHC mission noted with deep appreciation, the high level of conservation of the monuments composing the Historic Centre of Esfahan including the Meidan Emam World Heritage area. As the property is a complex site, the WHC mission recommended that site-interpretation and signage of the World Heritage values of the property be enhanced. 
The WHC mission witnessed the illegal construction of a new commercial complex within the “Conservation Protective Zone of Esfahan Historic City”. According to the authorities, the legal status of this zone had been adopted by the Government of Iran.  The construction, planned by the Municipality of Esfahan, was not authorized by the Central Government. Regretfully, the high-rise complex impacts upon the skyline of the historic city, as it has been constructed beyond the maximum height limitations for new constructions. In February 2002, the World Heritage Centre requested clarification on the status of the discussions continuing between the Municipality and the Central Government authorities to correct the situation. The Bureau, at its 26th session, expressed concern over this illegal construction and requested the Government of Iran to provide a report on the status of ongoing discussions between the Municipality and the Central Government authorities in correcting the situation, before 25 May 2002, to enable the Committee to examine the case at its 26th session in June 2002.  At the time of the preparation of this working document, the report had not yet been submitted to the Centre. 

The monitoring mission to be jointly undertaken by ICOMOS and an international urban planner funded under the UNESCO-France Convention was postponed after the events of 11 September 2001. Since January 2002, the organization of this mission, combined with a stakeholders’ meeting also financed under the UNESCO-France Convention, has been reactivated. The tentative dates of the mission and the meeting are in July 2002.

Action required: The Committee may wish to examine information that will be made available at the time of its session and take the appropriate decision thereupon.

Town of Luang Prabang (Lao People’s Democratic Republic) 
Inscribed in 1995 on the World Heritage List, under criteria C (ii) (iv) (v)

International assistance:
Total amount from 1994-2000: US$ 125,000

Previous deliberations:
24th session of the WH Committee - paragraph IV.69.
26th session of the Bureau of the WH Committee (paragraphs VII 91-93)

Main Issues:
•	administrative weakness to manage urban conservation;
•	lack of coordination between national and local authorities
•	illegal demolition of listed and non-listed buildings and illegal construction of buildings not in conformity with the conservation plan (PSMV) in the World Heritage protected area;
•	Public works threatening the urban wetlands and core area of the World Heritage site;

New information:
Following the request of the Bureau of the World Heritage Committee, an urgent UNESCO WHC-ICOMOS Reactive Monitoring Mission was undertaken to Luang Prabang from 24-28 April 2002 due to the gravity of the information concerning the continuation of public works negatively impacting on the World Heritage values of the site being carried out by the Urban Development Authority (UDAA), an entity established by the Government to implement the activities financed under the Asian Development Bank (ADB) loan. The mission was accompanied by the Mayor of Chinon in view of Chinon's role since 1996 as the main partner of Luang Prabang in the decentralized cooperation programme for the strengthening of local capacity brokered by the Centre. The Representative of the French Development Agency (AFD) was requested by UNESCO to participate in the field visits and the meetings to explain the technical aspects of the excellent demonstration public works projects being undertaken by Maison du Patrimoine (MDP) under the decentralized cooperation scheme with AFD grant aid. 

The mission held a series of meetings with the Maison du patrimoine (MDP-Heritage House, the advisory service attached to the Luang Prabang local government created in 1996 with catalytic support from the WH Fund and extrabudgetary funds raised by the Centre); the Department of Construction, and the Local Inter-departmental Committee on Heritage headed by the Prefet of Luang Prabang. The mission was also received by the new Governor of Luang Prabang, the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Construction. The mission also had the opportunity to express its concerns to the Director of the Asian Development Bank in Laos.

The preliminary findings of the mission are as follows:

1.	Concrete reinforcement of the Nam Khan river bank: this Asian Development Bank-financed work is completed; despite the negative visual impact of the gabions, the ICOMOS structural engineer judged that the reinforcement is beneficial to support the road along the riverbank although the massive design was not justified since the low velocity of the river currents of the Nam Khan caused minimal erosion. The mission recommended that the gabions be covered with vegetation to soften the negative visual impact.

2.	Walls along the riverbank of the Mekong: several hundred metres of walls along the Mekong are being constructed despite the negative recommendations of the MDP. These walls, cut the view of the Mekong River from the road thereby undermining the strong links between the natural and built environment which is one of the world heritage values of Luang Prabang. Given the strong seasonal currents of the Mekong River and the increasing risk of floods due to global warming, the ICOMOS expert stressed the potential dangers of such concrete retaining walls at times of heavy floods and strongly advised against the continued construction of theses walls whose purpose is merely to delimit the quay along the riverbank.  For the sections not yet built, the walls should be replaced by hedges of plants to delimit the quay and the riverbank should be consolidated where required by appropriate vegetation. MDP’s Water and Environment Unit (established with European Union funding) should be requested to draw-up the technical design of these works for approval by the Department of Construction and the Local Inter-departmental Heritage Committee.

3.	Illegal Demolition and construction: despite the strong initial adherence by the local inhabitants to the building permit system established in 1997 by provincial decree, violations have become increasingly current over the past two years, particularly by the wealthy inhabitants. Given the non-monumental character of this World Heritage site, continued demolition of traditional timber houses of great vernacular architectural value and further densification of the core area with new construction violating architectural design and volumetric guidelines would lead to the loss of the world heritage value of the site. The mission expressed great concern over the non-respect of the officially approved urban development and conservation plan (Plan de sauvegard et mise en valeur – PSMV), in some cases even by the public works department of the provincial government and the UDAA. 

4.		Threats on the urban wetlands: widening of the foot path in the urban wetlands into vehicular roads and inappropriately-designed drainage system in the wetlands are being carried out by UDAA under the Asian Development Bank loan scheme. These roads which have not been approved by the MDP risk further urbanisation of the area designated as nature protection area (ZPP-N) where construction is prohibited. The MDP water and environment expert and the ICOMOS expert believe that the open sewage canals may lead to the partial drainage of the area but will most likely leave pockets of still water which may aggravate water-born disease. The mission noted mosquito-infested still water in the open flat-bottom canals 1.25 metres wide installed only one metre from the existing houses.  Moreover, the Provincial Department of Finance constructed a new building in the ZPP-N area undermining the rehabilitation of the urban wetlands being undertaken by the MDP under a EU-funded project designed by the Centre and Chinon.

5.	Traditional building material: The failure despite efforts by MDP and international partners including UNESCO since 1998 to improve the quality of the local production of traditional roof tiles have led to the MDP approving the use of cement roof tiles pending the availability of roof tiles of better quality. Renewed efforts are needed to address this problem. The importation from Thailand or China of good quality roof tiles as well as the mobilisation of technical and financial assistance from bilateral or multilateral cooperation agencies will need to be considered urgently in view of the importance of roofing material in preserving the architectural features of the town.

Corrective measures:
The UNESCO-ICOMOS mission transmitted the concern of the World Heritage Committee and discussed with the Local Heritage Committee of Luang Prabang and the national authorities the following corrective measures indicating its intention to submit these proposals and the findings of the mission to the 26th session of the World Heritage Committee:

Corrective measure N°1 aimed at better control of illegal constructions:
A procedure to monitor construction and to stop in time illegal works needs to be established, involving the Department of Cooperation and the MDP.

Corrective measure N° 2 to ensure respect of the law by everyone:
The Lao authorities will execute as an example and with the necessary publicity, at least one or two demolitions of the illegal constructions.

Corrective measure N°3 aimed at awareness raising of the Development and Conservation Plan by the local administration 
As soon as possible the Governor of the province of Luang Prabang will present the Development  and Conservation Plan of the Maison du Patrimoine.  This presentation will be followed by a visit to the site. The Governor will organize and preside, within a two month period, a one-day workshop at which would participate Chiefs of all Provincial Departments.

Corrective measure N°4 to raise awareness of the Development and Conservation Plan by the enterprises:
Within the two-month period, a meeting of the enterprises and contractors having participated in the public works in the protected zone will be organized with the provincial services concerned and the Maison du Patrimoine to explain the Development and Conservation Plan. 

Corrective measure N° 5 aimed  at stopping the public works in progress contrary to the Development and Conservation Plan:
The construction of the road in the proximity of the Ecomuseum of Boua Kang Bung will be stopped. The Maison du Patrimoine will propose an alternative solution.

In conformity with the recommendations of the ICOMOS expert, the construction works of the supporting walls along the Mekong riverbanks will be limited to the completion of the works-in-progress.  No new construction of supporting walls will be undertaken.  

A recovery of the drainage canals will be undertaken in conformity with the propositions which will be established by the MDP to remedy the current situation. 

In conformity with the recommendations of the ICOMOS expert, the gabions on the banks of the Nam Khan will be completely recovered by soil and plantations will be installed.

Corrective measure N° 6 aimed at promoting the follow-up of the Development and Conservation Plan:
The Local Heritage Committee will meet regularly once a month in the presence of all services concerned.  It will treat difficult or contentious cases. It will transmit to the national Committee the questions which could not be settled at the local level.

Corrective measure N°7 aimed at better management of public places:
A well-planned and multi-usage solution will be elaborated between the provincial departments and the MDP (Asia-Urbs project) to conserve  the "Place d'armes" in its function as square where commercial activity can also take place.  The temporary use by the commercial activity will be regulated with care to ensure small markets in the city and to respect the cultural pluri-ethnic diversity. 

Corrective measure N°8 to establish a Fund to help the local inhabitants:
The Fund to help the local inhabitants should work efficiently, notably on the 15 samples of the houses which have been identified.  The Fund should provide an urgent solution to the problem of tiles by immediate import of a stock of quality tiles

Action Required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

"The Committee, upon examinination of the findings of the UNESCO-ICOMOS reactive monitoring mission expresses great concern over the non-respect of the conservation plan (PSMV) despite its official adoption by the local and national authorities and endorses the corrective measures proposed by the mission. The Committee requests (1) the Director-General of UNESCO to write to the President of the Asian Development Bank requesting the latter to support the local authorities of Luang Prabang to reinforce its urban management capacity; (2) the Centre to discuss the modalities for the implementation of the corrective measures; (3) the Centre and the Advisory Bodies to provide technical support to the State Party in the implementation of the proposed corrective measures. The Committee requests the State Party to provide a progress report to the Centre by 1 February 2003 for examination by the Bureau at its 27th session in April 2003.

Lumbini, the Birthplace of the Lord Buddha (Nepal)
Inscribed in 1997 on the World Heritage List under criteria C (iii), (vi)

International assistance:
Total amount (up to 2001): US$ 40,000

Previous deliberations:
25th session of the WH Committee - paragraph VIII.151.
26th session of the Bureau of the WH Committee (paragraphs XII.94-97).

Main issues: 
Conservation for the Maya Devi Temple exposed to harsh natural elements since the large-scale excavation in 1996.
Establishment of a sustainable drainage mechanism to prevent further degradation of the archaeological deposits. 
Identification of heritage assets within the core and buffer zones.
Elaboration of a garden landscape conservation scheme. 

New Information: 
Although the state of conservation of this property has been regularly examined by the Bureau and Committee since 1999, the situation still calls for serious remedial measures based upon careful assessment and analysis of the heritage assets and usage of the pilgrimage property. Appropriate follow-up actions are necessary based upon the recommendations adopted by the Nepalese authorities following the International Technical Meeting (April 2001) and four international expert missions organized at the request of the Government, to ensure adequate conservation, management and presentation activities on-site.  

At the time of preparation of this working document, the World Heritage Centre was organizing a mission to be undertaken by a conservation and site management expert and a brick conservation expert, both of whom had undertaken successful missions in close co-operation with the Nepalese authorities for examining options for enhanced conservation and presentation of the property. This mission is expected to take place between 24 June - 2 July 2002. 

In the meantime, ICOMOS and ICCROM and other international experts who have previously participated in international technical meetings concerning the rehabilitation of the Maya Devi Temple, informed the Centre that the new "Maya Devi Temple Rehabilitation Plan" submitted by the authorities met some recommendations made previously, pending the results of the activity undertaken by the Nepalese authorities and the University of Bradford (U.K.) to compile basic information to assess pilgrimage activities, environmental factors and to identify high or low-importance archaeological areas through non-destructive geophysical survey.  One of the objectives of the forthcoming mission is to examine on-site with the authorities, this new "Maya Devi Temple Rehabilitation Plan" together with the final report of the environmental and geophysical survey results.  The mission will also examine ways of reformulating the technical co-operation request to meet the urgent conservation and management needs of the site. 

Action required:  The Committee may wish to examine further information that will be made available at the time of its session and take the appropriate decision thereupon.

My Son Sanctuary (Viet Nam)
The Committee is requested to take note of the decision of the Bureau (paragraphs XII 98-100).

Europe and North America

Historic Centre of Vienna (Austria)
Inscribed in December 2001 on the World Heritage List under criteria C (ii), (iv) and (vi).

International assistance: None

Previous deliberations:  None

Main issues:  High-rise building project in vicinity of railway station in the buffer zone of the site. 

New information: Since the inscription of the site on the World Heritage List, at the 25th session of the Committee (2001), the Secretariat has received many newspaper articles and letters concerning the controversial height of these buildings. A mission of the Director of the Centre to the site is scheduled from 24 to 27 May 2002. Further information will be provided at the time of the Committee session.  In March 2002 an ICOMOS expert visited Vienna and participated in a public debate on the project as well as having discussions with several Viennese authorities. Although the height of the building project has been reduced to 97m the project remains controversial and will have a negative impact on the visual integrity of the Historic Centre of Vienna. An appeal has been made by a group of senior academic professors and may be taken to the High Court. 

Action required: The Committee may wish to examine information that may be available at the time of its session and take the appropriate decision thereupon.

The Walled City of Baku with the Shirvanshah's Palace and Maiden Tower (Azerbaijan)
Inscribed in December 2000 on the World Heritage List under criterion C (iv).

International assistance: None

Previous deliberations:  None

Main issues:  Destruction of houses and construction projects in the old City of Baku;

New information: During a mission to Azerbaijan, a staff member of the UNESCO Cultural Heritage Division noted that a number of the Old City's heritage buildings and houses have recently been demolished and replaced by new structures. The Centre transmitted this information to the authorities for review and to ICOMOS for comments. No reply has been received at the time of the preparation of this document.

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

	“The Committee urges the State Party to provide a report on the situation and to invite a mission to the site to review the state of conservation of the Old City of Baku and any threats to its World Heritage values”. 

Historic Area of Québec (Canada)
Inscribed in 1985 on the World Heritage List under criteria C (iv), (vi)

International Assistance: 
US$ 26.000: Technical cooperation  in 1991  (Québec Acts)

Previous deliberations:
25th extraordinary session of the Bureau – paragraphs III.157-III.158

Main issues: Project for a cruise terminal at Pointe-à-Carcy.

New information: 

Following an ICOMOS evaluation mission to the site (October 2001) and the recommendations made to the 25th extraordinary session of the Bureau, the State Party was requested to provide a report on the measures undertaken in this respect.  The Secretariat received a report on 11 March 2002, indicating that:

	1.	Concerning the use of the landing stage 

•	The present project for the landing stage at Pointe-à-Carcy is only for the use of cruisers in transit or those disembarking passengers at their final destination. 
•	The Québec Port Authority does not intend to establish a home port at this site.
•	The terminal work is completed, the elevated gangways and mobile platforms will be installed in the spring and the landscaping will be carried out at the same time. 

	2.	Concerning noise and traffic control

•	The question of increased traffic at the site is presently being studied using specific indicators.
•	The preliminary results of this evaluation have been measured by means of accurate simulations.
•	Data gathering will continue in 2002 and 2003 and the results will be compared in 2004 with the results of the earlier environmental examination in order to verify any divergences.

	3.	Concerning the second stage of the project (refuelling of ships, tunnel to convey baggage and bridges to facilitate free access to the quays) and the question of the conversion of the former Champlain maritime terminal in order to clear the Pointe-à-Carcy area and have only one transit port:

•	Québec Port Authority does not envisage the establishment of a home port before five or six years mainly due to the Canadian law concerning coastal traffic which shall be modified (delay of 5 years)
•	The second phase of the project is therefore postponed because the cruise market must first exist, the Canadian Government should release funds and a working group should be set up by the Québec Port Authority during the summer of 2003 to examine potential sites, including that of the Champlain Maritime Terminal, to create a home port. 

4.	Concerning revision of the boundaries of the World Heritage site to include the entire esplanade of Pointe-à-Carcy:

•	The examination of this revision  and in particular the boundaries of the territory, will be studied by the City of Québec, the Ministry of Culture and Communications and Parks Canada between March and April 2002.
•	A consultation procedure with the real estate owners concerned will be carried out in May 2002.
•	A document containing justifications will be prepared between April and June 2002.
•	Verification and validation of this document will be carried out during August 2002.
•	Transmission of this dossier submitting the adjustment to the boundaries of the World Heritage site will be accomplished in September 2002.

The report also notes that the Working Group will use this opportunity to study certain revisions that could be made to the entire perimeter of the site.   

5.	Concerning the definition of an urban plan for the area in association with the Municipality:

•	Canada’s Sea Law provides for the submission of a land use plan by the Québec Port Authority; this plan was submitted in October 2000 and ratified in February 2001.
•	The City of Québec must review its urban plan by 31 December 2005
•	A consultative committee comprising the three levels of government (municipal, provincial and federal) shall be established to examine this question. 

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

"The Committee takes note of the report transmitted by the State Party and congratulates the Canadian authorities on the actions undertaken in accordance with the recommendations made by the ICOMOS mission and by the 25th session of the Committee.  The Committee requests the State Party to continue working in close consultation with ICOMOS and the Centre and to provide a progress report on this matter by 1 February 2003 for examination at its 27th session." 

City-Museum Reserve of Mtskheta (Georgia)
Inscribed in 1994 on the World Heritage List under criteria C (iii) and (iv).

International assistance: 
1999 Technical cooperation - US$ 19,000 for the preparation of the heritage and tourism master plan for Mtskheta; 1999 Preparatory assistance - US$ 20,000 for the preparation of the nomination dossiers for Vardizia-Khertvisi Historical Area and Tbilissi Historic District.

Previous deliberations:  
25th extraordinary session of the Bureau (paragraph III. 159-160) 

Main issues: The degradation and construction projects at Svetitskhoveli Cathedral are a cause for concern. The Bureau requested a report on the state of conservation and up-to-date information on all the restoration and construction projects at the site.  

New information: 
At the time of the preparation of this document no report from the authorities had been received.

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision:

“The Committee strongly urges the State Party of Georgia to provide a report before the 1 September 2002 on the on-going constructions and degradations at the site, and requests the Government authorities to ensure that all these works are halted and that no further restoration works or constructions in close proximity to the Cathedral be undertaken. It requests that the authorities invite an UNESCO-ICOMOS to the site in the near future and that a report be presented to the 27th session of the Bureau in April 2003.”

Classical Weimar (Germany)
The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau (please refer to document WHC-02/CONF.202/2 - paragraphs XII. 101- 102).

Hanseatic City of Lübeck (Germany)
Inscribed in 1987 on the World Heritage List under criterion C (iv).

International assistance: None

Previous deliberations: 
25th extraordinary session of the Bureau - paragraphs III. 163-166

Main issues:  A shopping centre and office building construction project at the market place in the centre of Lübeck. 

New information: The Bureau, at its 26th session, requested that a working group, comprising the International Scientific Committee on Historic Towns and Villages (ICHTC) of ICOMOS and local and national authorities, meet as soon as possible in Lübeck to identify appropriate solutions. The Bureau requested that the report of the working group be submitted to the 26th session of the Committee.

By letter of 27 January 2002, an association of local inhabitants “Initiative 5 for 12” (Rettet den Lübecker Markt), informed the Secretariat that following the Bureau’s recommendation a working group of experts was set up and would hold a meeting on 1 and 2 February 2002 to discuss the project. The Observer of Germany to the Committee and an ICOMOS member attended the meeting. In this regard the association calls the attention of UNESCO to the following situation: The association and its specialists were not invited to participate in this meeting. Furthermore, the five representatives of the City of Lübeck were all in favour of the project and that consequently the discussions did not allow for any critical viewpoints to be discussed. The UNESCO World Heritage Centre was not informed of this meeting in advance and at the time of the preparation of this document no report has been received.

Action required: The Committee may wish to examine information that may be available at the time of its session and take the appropriate decision thereupon.

Acropolis, Athens (Greece)
Inscribed in 1987 on the World Heritage List under criteria C (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (vi)

International assistance: None

Previous deliberations: 
25th extraordinary session of the Bureau - paragraphs III.173 - III.177.

Main issues: Proposal for a 32m-high building in the vicinity of the Acropolis. 

New information:  The Secretariat received new information concerning the project for the construction of a 32m-high building indicating that the Licence No 743/2001 which was issued on 25 May 2001 by the Urban Planning Department of the Municipality of Athens - which is under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of the Environment Urban Planning and Public Works – is definite. This information was transmitted to the authorities for review and to ICOMOS for comments. At the time of the preparation of this document, no reply from the State Party has been received.

Action required: The Committee may wish to examine information that may be available at the time of its session and take the appropriate decision thereupon. 

Curonian Spit  (Lithuania/Russian Federation)
The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau (please refer to document WHC-02/CONF.202/2 - paragraphs XII. 103-105).

City of Luxemburg: its Old Quarters and Fortifications (Luxemburg)
Inscribed in 1994 on the World Heritage List under criterion C(iv)

International assistance: None

Previous deliberations: 
25th session of the Committee - paragraphs VIII.121 to VIII.127.

Main issues: Building of a Judiciary Centre on the Saint-Esprit Plateau of the City of Luxemburg.

The 25th session of the Committee requested the State Party to inform of the status of this project as well as the projects regarding the archaeological excavations at its 26th session. 

New information:  By fax dated 25 April 2002, the State Party informed the Secretariat that the Mayor of the Town of Luxembourg has issued, on 17 April 2002, an "agreement of principle to the Administration of Public Buildings for the construction of several buildings on the Saint Esprit Plateau". Furthermore, the State Party informed the Secretariat that the report requested will be transmitted in time for the session. 

Action required: The Committee may wish to examine information submitted by the State Party which will be available at the time of its session and take the appropriate decision thereupon. 

Auschwitz Concentration Camp  (Poland)
Inscribed in December 1979 on the World Heritage List under criterion C (vi).

International assistance: In 1998 (US$ 20,000): Technical cooperation for the organisation of international expert meetings for the Strategic Governmental Programme for Auschwitz. In 2002, US$ 20,000 were requested for the organisation of a meeting of the International Group of Experts to study the special planning for the site.

Previous deliberations: 
25th extraordinary session of the Bureau - paragraphs III.185-191.
25th session of the Committee - paragraphs, VIII. 149-151.

Main issues: Planning and management of the surroundings of the Camps; establishment of a buffer zone.

New information: A report was sent by the Polish Under Secretary of State on 22 February 2002 which provides information on the status of measures taken to implement the recommendations of the UNESCO mission to the site in 2001: 

The Strategic Government Plan for Oświęcim which has been extended through to 2006, is a very important initiative which supports the protection of the area surrounding the World Heritage site and, at the same time, ensures appropriate development of its infrastructure. The Programme is financed by the State budget and supported by local government budgets.

At a meeting held in Krakow in January 2002, upon the initiative of the Ministry of the Interior and Administration and attended by all the key national and local authorities and institutions, issues relating to the physical development of the area surrounding the site were discussed. The participants of the meeting agreed and reaffirmed the need to decide rapidly upon a strategic solution to solve the physical development problems while respecting the interest of the local community and the unique nature of the site. 
Buffer zone: In light of the Polish legislation, the only currently applicable protection zone around the Auschwitz Holocaust Memorial corresponds with the zone established subject to the Regulation of May 7, 1999 adopted by the Minister of the Interior and Administration. On 27 December 2001, a "draft proposal to change the local plan of physical development of the Zasole and Stare Stawy residential areas in Oświęcim, including the Holocaust Memorial in Oświęcim and its protection zone" were submitted to the Minister of the Interior and Administration. The Minister drew the attention of local authorities to the importance of the obligations under the World Heritage Convention. The consultation period was extended in order to enable experts, members of the International Group of Experts, to offer their opinions. Presently, the consultations are under way. For legal and administrative reasons it is not possible to develop a joint physical development plan for Oświęcim and Brzezinka. However, when a future plan for the village of Brzezinka is developed, it will be ensured that it is compatible with the plan of the city and commune of Oświęcim.

Related sites: The sites situated outside the World Heritage area, which are related to Auschwitz-Birkenau have recently become a focus of measures taken by the authorities with a view to ensuring their appropriate protection. The following sites, situated in Oświęcim and Brzezinka outside the area of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp, have been entered into the Register of Historical Monuments:
-	the site of the former warehouses Effektenlaber 1, the so-called Canada 1 in Oświęcim,
-	potato bunkers, the so-called "ziemniaczarki," situated at ul.  Piwniczna in Brzezinka,
-	the red house (a ruin of the gas chamber) - extended scope of the decision to enter it in the Register of Historical Monuments of the Birkenau Camp,
-	the gravel storage site with the building of the old theatre - after the formal and legal issues are clarified by the Governor Office of the Małopolska province
-	possibly also a railway siding: Alte Judenrampe.

Discotheque: The building used as a discotheque, which gave rise to many protests, was examined by the Government and steps were taken which resulted in the final repeal of the decision on the utilization of the industrial hall as the "catering and entertainment center". The industrial hall is not a historic building, but it is situated within the limits of the former tannery.

Utilization of buildings for educational purposes: In response to the UNESCO mission support to the plan to use some of the buildings of the former tobacco factory for educational purposes, formal steps have been taken to establish the Oświęcim Higher School of Humanities - a state higher vocational school. The school will offer courses in cultural studies, international relations and human rights. The city is looking for ways that will open it up to international collaboration. Poland's government intends - in consultation with the Polish National Commission for UNESCO - to turn the Oświęcim Higher School of Humanities into an institution of educational and scientific nature that will closely cooperate with UNESCO.

With a view to accelerate the work on full regulation of the protection-related issues (including the consultations on the proposed plans of physical development), the Polish National Commission for UNESCO has applied for international assistance to support the meeting of the International Group of Experts to study the special planning for the site for an amount of US$ 20,000. The Secretariat has also received several newspaper articles, published since March 2002, which inform about renewed discussions regarding the opening of a supermarket within the vicinity of the site. 

Action required: The Committee may wish to adopt the following recommendation.

“The Committee takes note of the report provided on Auschwitz Concentration Camp and its surroundings and thanks the State Party for its commitment concerning this site. The Committee, however, urges the State Party to finalize the management plan for the site as well as to urgently address the social and commercial development problems in the vicinity of the sites. Furthermore, it requests a report by 1 February 2003 on the progress of the management plan, the implementation of the recommendations and on the meeting of the International Group of Experts.” 

Cultural Landscape of Sintra (Portugal)
Inscribed in 1995 on the World Heritage List under criteria C (ii), (iv), (v). 

International assistance: None

Previous deliberations: 
24th extraordinary session of the Bureau - paragraph I.64.
25th extraordinary session of the Bureau- paragraph III.306.

Main issues: Following the ICOMOS/IUCN mission of 2000, a programme for restoring the site and improving its management of the site was to be undertaken by the State Party in the next six years. 

New information:  As requested by the 24th session of the Committee, a report has been transmitted to the Secretariat on 27 March 2002. The report focuses on the measures taken by the Portuguese authorities for the preservation and rehabilitation of inscribed sites in Portugal. It underlines that a set of studies, plans and designs have been drawn up to safeguard these properties, which will help to maintain and defend the cultural and natural heritage of Sintra. The objective of these plans is to take action in the areas most in need in order to improve and preserve them, and to oppose development plans which run counter to the criteria on which the inscription was based. The report mentions that three bodies have responsibilities in the World Heritage site: The Ministry of Culture, the Institute for the Preservation of Nature and the Sintra Council. Furthermore, the report underlines that the Sintra Council is responsible for any action taken in the Town of Sintra and that, through the Historic Centre's Renewal Plan, an "Integrated Plan for Renewal and Improvement of the Town of Sintra has been set up". This plan covers 12 programmes which provide effective action in various areas and ensure judicious and timely management of its heritage and which will be developed in an integrated manner keeping in mind the principle of the preservation and conservation of the Town of Sintra. The report also states that the rehabilitation, improvement and renewal of the site is a priority and that booklets and brochures have been published for the general public in order to associate people in the effort of reviving, redeveloping and restoring the Town of Sintra and its cultural landscape. The report further underlines that a business corporation - Parques de Sintra - Monte da Lua - was set up in September 2000 with a view to coordinating action to renovate and improve areas within the perimeter of the World Heritage site. The report also mentions that the management plan for the site is an agreed programme between all parties involved in the protection of the site and that it aims at identifying the most significant issues affecting the site and finding solutions. This management plan is to be concluded by the end of 2002. 

Furthermore, by letter dated 25 March 2002, the State Party informed the Secretariat that an underground car park project at Sintra has been abandoned. 

Action required:  The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision: 
"The Committee takes note of the report provided by the State Party and congratulates the Portuguese authorities for the actions undertaken in view of the preservation and protection of the World Heritage site. However, the Committee recalls the practical steps recommended by the joint IUCN-ICOMOS mission and adopted by the Bureau at its 24th extraordinary session, creation of an independent Cultural Landscape Advisory Committee; creation of an advisory body/association of residents; the establishment of a public information, research and archives centre; and an adjustment of the high protection area of the Natural Park to coincide with the core area of the World Heritage site. Therefore, the Committee urges the State Party to submit before 1 February 2003 a detailed report on these recommendations as well as a detailed management plan for the site for examination at its 27th session." 

Historic Centre of Sighisoara (Romania)
Inscribed in 1999 on the World Heritage List under criteria C (iii) (iv)

International assistance: None

Previous deliberations: 
25th session of the Committee - paragraphs VIII.143 -147.

Main issues: 
Project for the building of a theme park - "Dracula Park" - in the vicinity of the World Heritage site

New information:  As requested by the 25th session of the Committee, a joint UNESCO-ICOMOS mission was undertaken to the site from 22 to 28 March 2002. The full report of the joint mission is contained in the Working Document WHC-02/CONF.202/INF.14. The general aim of the mission was to assess the different impacts the building of such a theme park could have on the World Heritage site and its values. The joint mission visited the World Heritage site of the Historic Centre of Sighisoara and the proposed area where the theme park (Dracula Park) is planned to be built and was able to meet in Bucharest with the Minister of Tourism - responsible for the project- and with the Minister of Culture. The mission assessed the conditions of the World Heritage site itself, including its state of conservation, legal protection of the site and its buffer zone, management and planning, including tourism planning as well as social issues. The mission noted the poor state of conservation of the fortified walls and towers of the city. A part of the city wall collapsed in the summer of 1998 and remains in a perilous state. The mission also noted that plans for the long-term protection of the wall have not been developed and discussed with international experts, as recommended at the time of inscription of the site. 

The mission made recommendations with regard to the management and planning of the site, the responsibility for the management of the site, the development of cultural tourism, and for the improvement of the presentation of the site. The mission acknowledged the need for development and for the improvement of living conditions of the local communities in and around World Heritage sites. 

In the assessment of the proposed theme park and construction project (in the feasibility study entitled "Dracula Park"), the mission focused mainly on the exact location and dimension of the proposed theme park, environment, archaeology, architecture and design, financial viability, phasing and timetable, impact studies, related infrastructures and expected tourism profiles. The mission highlighted the fact that no permanent construction was ever built on the Breite Plateau. With regard to the environment, the mission noted that the Breite Plateau was protected by law 5/2000 of 5 March 2000 for its natural values, in particular the oak trees. During the field visit, the mission discovered that archaeological rescue excavations were currently being undertaken. 

With regard to the financial viability of the project, the mission noted the proposal to finance the conservation of the Historic Centre of Sighisorara with the profits from the theme park. This income, however, will depend on the success of the theme park, which is based on figures and forecasts for the number and type of tourists. According to these forecasts, 70-90% are expected to be Romanians from within an 80 km radius, an assumption which is seen as unrealistic considering the generally low salaries and poor living conditions and standards. Furthermore, the mission noted that the location of the park - 5 hours by car or train from Bucharest - would discourage use by foreign visitors. The mission questioned whether the type of tourist visiting the theme park would be identical to those interested in cultural tourism and the seven World Heritage sites in the region. The mission was informed of concerns raised by a part of the local population related to potential social and cultural impacts by the expected visitor numbers and types of tourism. The mission acknowledged the diversity of cultures present in Sighisoara and noted that the considerable external impact of a theme park could affect their way of life and continuing cultural traditions. 

The mission was concerned that, in the event of failure of the project after Phase I, the constructions would remain unused on the Plateau. With regard to the impact studies, the mission recalled the Committee’s request for an environmental impact study and noted that this had not yet been finalized. Concerning the related infrastructures, the mission was informed of different access possibilities, including two regional airports.

The mission assessed the potential impact of the proposed project on the site and on the surrounding environment notably concerning the landscape setting, the visual and cultural impacts. It found that a rural landscape of exceptional beauty formed the setting of the World Heritage site. The mission questions therefore whether the development of such a theme park, covering an area considerably larger that the Historic City of Sighisoara, is appropriate in a rural area with continuing agricultural use. 

The mission noted that the construction of the theme park would be kept below the tree line and would therefore not be visible. However, during wintertime and depending on the materials and colours used, there may be some visual impact through the trees. 

The mission came to the following conclusions:

1.	Even if the visual impacts and noise level of the proposed theme park would be limited, the secondary impacts from an increase in the number of tourists and vehicles, as well as the negative cultural impacts, are highly significant. Furthermore, the presence of the medieval city of Sighisoara in a rural landscape setting is important for the overall integrity of the World Heritage site, which may be damaged by such a large-scale development in a recreational area and on a protected natural site adjacent to the city.

2.	The intention to fund the conservation of the World Heritage site with the profits of the Dracula Park is commendable. However, the state of conservation of the World Heritage site is critical and too important a matter to await the construction and successful operation of the theme park. 

3.	Concerning the management of the site, it is noted that no management plan was available. It is strongly recommended that a World Heritage coordination team responsible for management be established and attached to the city administration to prepare an overall management plan, including management of tourism.

4.  The socio-economic situation of the city and region planned at a distance results in a number of critical social issues. These need to be taken into account in any future development in and around the city of Sighisoara. At the same time, the region has an enormous development potential with the series of World Heritage sites (Historic Centre of Sighisoara, seven fortified churches in the vicinity etc.) in particular for cultural itineraries and cultural tourism. The local and regional authorities should be strongly encouraged to review existing and new proposals involving the stakeholders concerned.

Action required:  The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision: 

"The Committee notes the report of the joint UNESCO-ICOMOS mission undertaken to the site. The Committee notes with great concern the poor state of conservation of the World Heritage site and the high potential negative impacts, cultural as well as environmental, of the proposed theme park project on the site. The Committee, recalling paragraphs 80 to 82 of the Operational Guidelines, urges the State Party: 	

1.	To enhance the state of conservation of the property as a matter of urgency before the Committee considers any steps towards its inclusion on the List of World Heritage in Danger; and in this regard, to seek immediately both national and international funding and to request, for the most urgent restoration works, technical cooperation for the preservation and protection of the World Heritage site. The Committee recalls that funds could be made available, upon request of the State Party, from the World Heritage Fund. 

2.	To establish, as a matter of urgency, a World Heritage coordination team, attached to the city administration, responsible for management, in order to prepare an overall management plan, including management of tourism, for the World Heritage site. 

3.	To take into account the critical social issues of the city and region in any further developments in and around the city of Sighisoara; and to take into account the existing potential development represented notably by a series of World Heritage site in the region, in particular for cultural itineraries and cultural tourism. Furthermore, the Committee, concerned by the analysis of the real benefits to be derived from the theme park for the World Heritage site, and its population, requests the Romanian Government to reconsider the proposed theme park and in particular its location – planned at a distance of 1.5 km from the World Heritage site. The Committee requests the State Party to provide a report on this matter and on the status of this project before 1 January 2003 for examination by the 27th session of the Bureau in April 2003. "

Spišský Hrad and its Associated Cultural Monuments (Slovakia)
The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau (please refer to document WHC-02/CONF.202/2- paragraphs XII. 106-107.
Old City of Salamanca (Spain)
Inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1988 under criteria C (i), (ii) and (iv)

International assistance:  None

Previous deliberations:  None

Main issues:	Construction project for an auditorium in the Old City of Salamanca 

New information:  The World Heritage Centre was informed in several instances by NGOs and citizen associations of the construction project for an auditorium in the old City of Salamanca, inside the perimeter inscribed on the World Heritage List. An ICOMOS monitoring mission was carried out from 28 February to 3 March 2002 to study the impact of this project on the World Heritage site.  In its report, ICOMOS highlighted the following: 

•	The planned auditorium is a lyric theatre of more than 1,400 places; 
•	The land foreseen for the construction project belongs, with regard to heritage protection, to "The  Historic-artistic Ensemble"  of the Old City declared as a national monument in 1951 and which was provided with a "Special plan for protection and interior reform of the university area and historic-artistic ensemble" approved in 1984, which was part of the nomination dossier submitted for inscription of the site; 
•	At the end of the 19th century, this plot belonged to the congregation of the Worshippers who had constructed a building; 
•	The plot is surrounded on three sides by several "properties of cultural value" (national monuments), two of which benefit from a "zone of respect" delimited in 1999 and in particular the Church and the Ursuline Convent which includes the  land under consideration for the project;
•	By the decision of 15 September 2000, the Director General of Heritage and Cultural Promotion of the Junte of Castille and Léon approved a modification to the protection plan rendering the plot constructible; 
•	The planned auditorium is a large building covering a surface of 2,563 square metres, occupying most of the area and providing for an unbuilt peripheral area of about ten metres wide; 
•	Even if the project would eliminate a certain number of "parasite" constructions existing in this perimeter, the land today considered as an open area beyond its surrounding walls would be replaced by a building that would be overwhelming, a change that would disadvantage the surrounding monuments and the values of the Old City of Salamanca; 
•	The visual impact other than from the pedestrian perspective has not been considered; thus, the view of the auditorium from the panorama of the two towers of the Monterrey Palace - "property of cultural value"- would be particularly negative;
•	Due to its dimensions, the construction of the auditorium would dominate the quarter and provoke an inversion of the dominant perspective of the ensemble of the sector;
•	The urban values of such a project are not taken into consideration, and the maintenance of the surrounding wall could appear to be a concession towards the concern for heritage protection; 
•	The safeguarding plan for the site, approved in 1984, has never been revised but a dozen partial modifications have been made, the last one making it legally possible to erect the auditorium;
•	In this area, the construction of new buildings appears to have been intense and the options concerning planning protection have not always been respected; 
•	The extent of guarantees submitted by the State Party for the implementation of the Convention is greatly weakened by the facility with which the document for urbanism protection has been modified. 
Action required:	The Committee may wish to adopt the following decision: 

	"The Committee takes note of the ICOMOS mission report that considers that the auditorium project in the Old City of Salamanca is likely to greatly alter the immediate vicinity of several historic monuments in the centre of which its construction is foreseen and could also alter the outstanding values for which the site was inscribed on the World Heritage List. The Committee recommends that the State Party seek another location for this project, the utility of which is not disputed. With regard to the management of the World Heritage sites, the Committee recommends that the State Party avoids making minor modifications to the present safeguarding plan and elaborate a new adapted and sustainable management plan."

Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites (United Kingdom)

The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau (please refer to document WHC-02/CONF.202/2, - paragraphs XII. 108-109.

Latin America and the Caribbean

The Historical Centre of the City of Goiás (Brazil) 
The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau (please refer to document WHC-02/CONF.202/2 - paragraphs XII. 110-113.

The Churches of Chiloé (Chile) 
The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau (please refer to document WHC-02/CONF.202/2 -paragraphs XII. 114-115.

Colonial City of Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic)
Inscribed in 1990 on the World Heritage List under criteria C (ii) (iv) and (vi)

International assistance: 	US$ 82,207 of which US$ 24,207 was approved in 2001 for a Study on Cultural Tourism in the Historic Centre of Santo Domingo.

Previous deliberations: 
25th session of the Committee - paragraph VIII.152.
25th session of the Bureau- paragraphs XII.116-117.

Main Issues:	Development pressures

Action required: 
The Committee may wish to take note of the decision taken by the Bureau and examine information that may be made available at the time of its 26th session and take the appropriate decision thereupon.

The Historical Centre of Lima (Peru)
The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau (please refer to document WHC-02/CONF.202/2 -paragraphs XII. 118-124.

The Archaeological Site of Chavín (Peru) 
The Committee is requested to note the decision by the Bureau (please refer to document WHC-02/CONF.202/2 - paragraphs XII. 125-127.