Monaco takes part in the 33rd session of the ICCROM General Assembly

33e AG ICCROM © DR

On 2 and 3 November, the Principality took part in the 33rd session of the General Assembly of the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM) in Rome.

This intergovernmental organisation provides its Member States (138 today) with the best tools, knowledge and skills to support them in the conservation of all forms of cultural heritage, in and outside their borders, in the interest of all peoples. Its mandate operates in the spirit of the 2001 UNESCO Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity, which states that “respect for the diversity of cultures, tolerance, dialogue and cooperation, in a climate of mutual trust and understanding are among the best guarantees of international peace and security”.

At this session, the General Assembly adopted the Programme of Activities and Budget for 2024-2025, for the continued implementation of the Organisation’s flagship programmes, including First Aid and Resilience for Cultural Heritage in Times of Crisis (FAR), which the Principality has supported for several years.

Ms Aruna Gujral, Italy’s candidate from the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) was elected to be next Director-General of ICCROM by a very large majority, including Monaco. Her four-year mandate will begin in January 2024.

The General Assembly also elected 14 members from among 23 candidates in a partial renewal of the ICCROM Council, creating a new dynamic through which to face the multiple crises and conflicts the world faces today. Heritage takes on great importance both in terms of conservation and in building lasting peace through the collective memory offered by cultural heritage.