Canada provides $500,000 for Unesco Heritage Emergency Fund

GATINEAU – The Government of Canada is firmly committed to protecting cultural heritage, a fundamental component of the identity, social cohesion, economic sustainability, peace and security of the international community.

Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage, announced that $500,000 in funding is being provided to the Heritage Emergency Fund of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco). This funding is a testament to Canada’s ongoing commitment to the protection of cultural heritage at the international level.

As a State Party to the 1954 Hague Convention and the 1970 Unesco Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property, Canada plays an essential role in protecting cultural heritage during times of conflict and heritage that is at risk of illicit trafficking. By being at the forefront of important discussions, Canada is actively committed to honouring its obligations to protect cultural heritage.

The concerns and issues related to heritage protection are being increasingly felt at the international level. Whether the risk to heritage results from armed conflict or natural disasters, this new contribution will support Unesco in its efforts to quickly and effectively protect endangered cultural heritage.

As the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee—held in New Delhi, India, from July 21 to 31, 2024—comes to a close, we are reminded of the importance of preserving our world heritage. It is by working together that we will be able to protect world heritage and ensure a cultural legacy for future generations.