Legal Aspect of implementing World Heritage Convention using Remote Sensing Data

Paper number

IAC-05-E6.1.09

Author

Ms. Atsuyo Ito, University of Paris XI, France

Year

2005

Abstract

Space-based remote sensing is suited to monitor the Earth’s environment -  from atmospheric conditions to the marine environment. Indeed, remote sensing data are increasingly used to implement number of environmental treaties. Environmental treaties are often weak in their nature - lacking effective implementation and enforcement mechanisms and yet the role played by remote sensing for such purposes is crucial.  
The 1972 World Heritage Convention benefits from the open initiative, originally proposed by UNESCO and ESA, to use space technology, particularly remote sensing data, in support of implementing the convention. Now joined by many other  space agencies and entities, remote sensing images have been used effectively to study the world heritage sites provided that the country owning the site agrees to participate and become an active partner. They have identified problems faced by some of the world heritage sites, for instance, MachuPichu and the mountain roads leading to it, which are under regular threat of seasonal landslides.
This paper examines World Heritage Convention and the UN Remote Sensing Principles and how remote sensing data can be an important  support to implementing the convention. Furthermore, it addresses the issue of enforcement in relation to the legal status of world heritage sites and the obligations under the Convention, both for State parties and the international community as a whole, to preserve these world heritage sites. -

Abstract document

IAC-05-E6.1.09.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-05-E6.1.09.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.