International Conference on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage

The International Conference on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage will take place from 17 to 19 June 2019 at Les Ateliers des Capucins in the city of Brest, France. It will focus on questions of the ratification and implementation of the Convention, discuss the future of underwater cultural heritage protection and also of the law of the sea.

The conference will allow State delegations to fully understand the implications and advantages of the 2001 Convention. Practical sessions and excursions to the ocean will be part of the event, as well as operational presentations of underwater archaeology in situ, which will enable delegates to fully appreciate the importance of submerged heritage as well it needs.

The conference will start at 12:30 of 17 June 2019 with a celebrative opening and then allow for statements by UNESCO delegations, in depth discussions about the 2001 Convention and law of the sea, questions of research as well as the situation of underwater heritage in the various regions. English and French interpretation will be ensured during the whole event. The event will be accompanied by outings and practice-oriented side-events.

The conference is organized on invitation by the Government of France and precedes the immediately following Meeting of States Parties to the 2001 Convention and the meeting of its Scientific and Technical Advisory Body.