Recently, UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee made a significant decision regarding the Saint Hilarion Monastery, also known as Tell Umm Amer, in the Gaza Strip. During the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee in New Delhi, India, the monastery was added to both the “World Heritage” and “World Heritage In Danger” lists. This recognition highlights the immense historical value of the ancient monastery and the urgent need for its protection.
The decision to inscribe Saint Hilarion Monastery to both lists was made using an emergency procedure outlined in the World Heritage Convention. This procedure allows for accelerated inscriptions for sites that are under immediate threat. UNESCO spokespersons have expressed concerns about the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, stating that it could pose a threat to this invaluable archaeological site. While no damage has been identified at the site yet, UNESCO is closely monitoring it remotely using satellite imagery.
Being named a UNESCO World Heritage site brings with it a significant responsibility. UNESCO’s 196 “State Parties,” including countries that have ratified the World Heritage Convention, are obligated to avoid any actions that could directly or indirectly harm the site and must contribute to its protection and preservation. Even though Israel is no longer a member of UNESCO, it remains a State Party bound by the terms of the Convention to safeguard the monastery.
The decision to inscribe Saint Hilarion Monastery to both the World Heritage and World Heritage In Danger lists comes at a politically sensitive time. The United States and Israel, both significant players in global politics, have had complicated relationships with UNESCO in the past. While the United States recently rejoined UNESCO under the Biden administration, Israel has not taken similar steps to rejoin the organization. These political dynamics add another layer of complexity to the protection and preservation of the monastery.
Simultaneous inscriptions to UNESCO’s World Heritage and “In Danger” lists are not uncommon. Several sites around the world face threats from various factors, such as war, natural disasters, pollution, and overtourism. Currently, there are 1,123 sites on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, with only 56 on the “In Danger” list. Sites listed as “In Danger” receive special attention, including technical and financial assistance for protection and conservation efforts.
The decision to inscribe Saint Hilarion Monastery to UNESCO’s lists was made following a request from Palestine. The site was first included on Palestine’s Tentative List in 2012, indicating the country’s intention to nominate it as a World Heritage Site in the future. In June 2024, Palestine submitted the nomination of ‘Saint Hilarion Monastery/Tell Umm Amer’ with a request for an emergency inscription, highlighting the pressing need for its protection.
The decision to inscribe Saint Hilarion Monastery to UNESCO’s World Heritage and World Heritage In Danger lists underscores the significance of this ancient site and the urgent need for its protection. As stakeholders navigate political complexities and global challenges, it is essential to prioritize the preservation of cultural heritage for future generations.