In Memoriam: Jean-Paul L’Allier
The UNESCO World Heritage Centre has learnt with deep sadness of the recent passing of Mayor Jean-Paul L’Allier, founder and dedicated supporter of the Organization of World Heritage Cities. In 1991, as Mayor of Quebec City, Mr L’Allier brought together the Mayors of 41 World Heritage Cities from around the globe to lay the foundations for the creation of the Organization of World Heritage Cities in 1993.
He served as President of the OWHC from its founding until 1999, the first and longest-serving President of the Organization.
His vision of creating a network to assist cities in meeting the challenges of having World Heritage status resonated throughout the world and resulted in an Organization that has achieved substantive relevance in the conservation and management of cultural heritage. Through the years Mr. L’Allier remained an invaluable adviser to the OWHC.
Mr L’Allier was a great supporter of World Heritage cities and a driving force in bringing people together to enhance World Heritage conservation.
We offer our deepest and heartfelt condolences to his wife, Johanne Mongeau, and his children.