Identification of heritage

The World Heritage Convention does not specifically define identification.  Throughout the Convention reference is made to the "identification, protection, conservation, presentation and transmission to future generations of the cultural and natural heritage".  Article 5 of the Convention makes reference to a number of "effective and active measures" that can be taken by States Parties in ensuring this "identification, protection, conservation, presentation and transmission" (UNESCO 1972).

Within the Operational Guidelines the identification of properties for potential inclusion in the World Heritage List is referred to as the first step in the process of World Heritage conservation (UNESCO February 1996: 1, 17 and 32, Paragraphs 2, 54 and 94).
       
An identification section is included as part of the nomination form (UNESCO February 1996: 20, Paragraph 64 (c) and UNESCO 1995).

Source(s): Glossary of World Heritage Terms related to the Implementation of the World Heritage Convention (1996)