Progress report on the Upstream Processes

WHC-15/39.COM/9A

At its 32nd session (Quebec City, 2008), the World Heritage Committee launched a process of reflection on the future of the World Heritage Convention.

In this framework, the Committee, aware of the challenges that exist in the process for nominating a property to the World Heritage List, proposed an initiative entitled Upstream Process. The aim was to find options for improving and strengthening the current nomination process. In 2011, the Committee, through Decision 35 COM 12C, took note of the selection of 10 pilot projects to explore creative approaches and new forms of guidance that might be provided to States Parties in considering nominations before their preparation.

Further to Decision 38 COM 9A, this document presents general issues related to the Upstream Process as well the progress made on each of the pilot projects since the 38th session of the World Heritage Committee.