Malta

• © UNESCO. Jean Dupin
• Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, sanctuary, necropolis, prehistoric times

Malta joined UNESCO on February 10, 1965.

The country takes part in several UNESCO programmes related to the environment, protection of seas and oceans, and higher and technical education.

Malta participates in the South-Eastern Mediterranean Environmental Project (SEMEP), launched in 1995. The project fosters awareness of environmental issues and common regional heritage among young people.

The International Safeguarding Campaign of the Historic Monuments and Sites of Malta, launched in 1980 and ending in 2000, led to the restoration of the famous Hal Saflieni Hypogeum. The enormous subterranean labyrinth excavated circa 2500 B.C. was added to the World Heritage List in 1980. Another site, the Megalithic Temples of Malta, is now threatened by climate change. Measures are being studied to mitigate negative impact.

In education, Malta is engaged in the AVICENNA project, promoting the use of ICT-assisted Open Distance Learning. The capital hosted the 6th session of the Intergovernmental Committee Responsible for the Application of the International Convention on the Recognition of Studies, Diplomas and Degrees in Higher Education in the Arab and European States bordering on the Mediterranean.