1. Having examined Document WHC-08/32.COM/10A,

2. Recalling Decisions 31 COM 13 and 31 COM 17 adopted at its 31st session (Christchurch, 2007),

3. Thanking the Government of the United Kingdom for having hosted the Science and Technology expert workshop, which took place from 21 to 23 January 2008 in London, as well as all the experts who contributed to it,

4. Noting the results and recommendations of the Science and Technology expert workshop within the framework of the Global Strategy,

5. Takes note of the progress report on the global thematic studies undertaken by ICOMOS and IUCN;

6. Requests IUCN and ICOMOS to continue to develop their work on thematic studies, in relation to priorities identified in Document WHC-08/32.COM/10A;

7. Noting the underfunding of this significant activity for identifying properties with or having potential Outstanding Universal Value;

8. Takes note of the need for additional resources to be provided to support priority work by ICOMOS and IUCN on thematic studies, including updating existing studies, the application of criterion VII and new initiatives, and to promote their effective use by States Parties;

9. Invites States Parties to the Convention to consider providing extra-budgetary assistance to support the work outlined in paragraphs 6 and 7 above;

10. Thanks the government of France for its generous offer to fund a thematic study on Agro-pastoral Cultural Landscapes.

11. Thanks the government of Spain for its generous offer to fund a thematic study on prehistoric sites;