On July 24, Lazar Eloundou Assomo, Director of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, expressed confidence that Japan will effectively implement the World Heritage Committee's decision to comprehensively present the entire history of the Sado Mine. This statement was made during an interview with reporters at the 48th World Heritage Committee meeting in Busan.
The committee previously recommended that Japan address the entire history of the Sado Mine's development and improve its interpretation, exhibition strategies, and facilities through close consultation with stakeholders.
In this context, Assomo stated, "I believe Japan will implement this well," adding that the committee's role is to continuously monitor whether such decisions are actually carried out.
Addressing concerns about the lack of enforcement power, he explained, "The World Heritage Committee continuously checks through its system," noting that advisory bodies review reports submitted by the countries to assess compliance and preservation status.
He also emphasized the importance of cooperation between South Korea and Japan, stating, "Both Korea and Japan are important partners of the World Heritage Centre," and that the centre will continue to facilitate dialogue and collaboration between the two nations.
Regarding the ongoing controversy over redevelopment around Jongmyo, Assomo referred to Jongmyo as a 'treasure' and stressed that "preservation is very important, as it is a highly valuable heritage." He pointed out that world heritage sites within urban areas, including Jongmyo, face development pressures and emphasized the necessity of conducting prior assessments of the impact of development on heritage.
He reiterated the significance of heritage impact assessments, stating, "While dialogue and consultation among parties are important, it is crucial to adhere to established procedures and guidelines." He added, "Preserving Jongmyo is our collective responsibility," highlighting the need to protect cultural identity.
Assomo mentioned, "I have heard a lot about Jongmyo recently," expressing a desire to visit it when in Seoul.
On the Busan Declaration, he described it as "a very important declaration" and a message from the 48th World Heritage Committee to the world. He noted that the declaration addresses the crises facing world heritage and includes considerations for solutions, community participation, and enhanced education, reiterating that cooperation is key.
He also conveyed a positive message regarding Busan's efforts to pursue World Heritage status for the 'Refugee Capital Busan Heritage' by 2030, stating, "The fact that Busan hosted the World Heritage Committee signifies that it is ready to share its heritage with the world." He added that the World Heritage Centre is discussing necessary measures for the inscription of the Refugee Capital Busan Heritage with the Cultural Heritage Administration.
Assomo, a Cameroonian national, is an expert in both cultural and natural heritage. He joined UNESCO in 2003 as head of the Africa section of the World Heritage Centre and has held various positions, including Chief Representative of UNESCO in Mali and Deputy Director of the World Heritage Centre, before being appointed Director in December 2021.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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